The 2024 World Press Photo Exhibition Opens in London
World Press Photo Story of the Year: Lee-Ann Olwage for GEO
The World Press Photo Exhibition has returned to London, bringing its striking showcase of photojournalism and documentary photography to the capital for the second year running. Open from 23 May to 25 August 2025, the exhibition is hosted at the new MPB Gallery at Here East on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
World Press Photo Story of the Year: Lee-Ann Olwage for GEO: Valim-babena..
In Madagascar, lack of public awareness surrounding dementia means that people displaying symptoms of memory loss are often stigmatized. For years, Paul Rakotozandriny, “Dada Paul”, (91), who lives with dementia, has been cared for by his daughter Fara Rafaraniriana (41). Their story illustrates the Malagasy principle of valim-babena – the duty of grown children to help their parents. With its dignified, intimate approach, this project presents another perspective on the issue, resonating with families across the world, while at the same time challenging conflict-focused stereotypes of Africa.
This global touring exhibition, organised by the World Press Photo Foundation, draws together award-winning images that reflect the most significant events and themes from around the world. From war zones and climate crises to moments of resilience and humanity, the exhibition offers an engaging and, at times, challenging perspective on current affairs.
After attracting more than three million visitors across 66 cities during its 2024 tour, the exhibition continues to gain traction as an essential cultural event. Its return to London in 2024 followed a seven-year gap and proved hugely popular, securing its place on the UK’s cultural calendar.
The London Exhibition Director, Woody Anderson, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to bring this remarkable exhibition back to London for a second consecutive year. After a seven-year absence from the country, its successful reintroduction in 2024 reaffirmed its status as a must-see cultural event. We are excited to continue building its legacy as an essential highlight in the UK’s cultural calendar.”
This year’s venue, Here East, places the exhibition in the heart of East London’s growing creative hub. The timing also aligns with the launch of the V&A Storehouse on the same campus. Mike Magan, COO of Here East, highlighted the significance of this moment: “East London has cemented its reputation as a thriving hub for culture and creativity, attracting world-class institutions and artists. With the V&A Storehouse opening at Here East this Spring, the launch of the innovative dance venue Sadler’s Wells East, the soon-to-arrive BBC Music Studios, and now the return of the World Press Photo Exhibition, this corner of London is setting the pace for the future of the creative industries - and we’re proud to be at the heart of it.”
World Press Photo Open Format Award Julia Kochetova: War is Personal.
Amidst tens of thousands of civilian and military casualties and an effective stalemate that has lasted for months, there are no signs of peace on the horizon for Russia’s war in Ukraine. While news media updates its audience with statistics and maps, and international attention drifts elsewhere, the photographer has created a personal website that brings together photojournalism with the personal documentary style of a diary to show the world what it is like to live with war as an everyday reality.
The exhibition is supported by MPB, a platform for buying, selling and trading used photography and videography equipment. Sophie Collins, CMO of MPB, added: “It’s an honour to support the World Press Photo Exhibition. Each year, this showcase provides an unparalleled window into global events through the eyes of the world’s most talented photographers. This year, we are also excited to celebrate the exhibition’s new home at the MPB Gallery, marking a new chapter in our ongoing commitment to the event. We can’t wait to see this year’s winners and celebrate the power of visual storytelling.”
Visitors can expect compelling stories told through the eyes of some of the world’s most talented photojournalists. Tickets are now available.
For more information and to book tickets, visit the World Press Photo website.
