This summer, Montreal’s iconic Bonsecours Market (Marché Bonsecours) became a gateway to the world’s most compelling stories as it hosted the 17th edition of the World Press Photo Exhibition. Running from August 30 to October 15, the exhibition is open daily, from 10 AM to 10 PM, inviting visitors to witness some of the most striking images captured by photographers worldwide.
The event, organized by the World Press Photo Foundation since 1955, showcased 30 winning photographs selected from a staggering 61,062 submissions by 3,851 photographers representing 130 countries. Each image on display told a profound story—of resilience, triumph, tragedy, and the complex layers of humanity that connect us all.
One of the most unforgettable moments was encountering the 2024 World Press Photo of the Year, a deeply moving photograph by Mohammed Salem of Reuters. The image captured Inas Abu Maamar, a Palestinian woman, cradling the lifeless body of her five-year-old niece, Saly, who had perished alongside her mother and sister in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza. Taken on October 17, 2023, at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, the photograph stood as a raw and haunting testament to the devastating impact of conflict.
As visitors stood before this and other poignant works, the exhibition space grew silent—a collective pause to absorb the weight of the stories before them. For many, including myself, it was an emotional journey that demanded reflection and empathy, reminding us of the deep-seated challenges faced by people across the globe.
Stepping outside, the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal buzzed with new visitors eager to step into this world of visual storytelling. The growing line outside Bonsecours Market was a testament to the power of photography to connect, inform, and inspire.
If you’re in Montreal this fall, the World Press Photo Exhibition is a must-visit. Plan your visit early in the day to avoid long lines, and set aside enough time to fully engage with each image. It’s not just an art display—it’s a moving exploration of humanity that will leave a lasting impression long after you leave.
Travels by Cheryl Anne 