The state of the world as
per World Press Photo

Large format photographs presented by photographers from 130 countries

Images and text by Jean-François Brucel

September 9, 2024

Once again this year, the World Press Photo exhibition is being held at Marché Bonsecours until October 14. Large format photographs, selected from approximately 61,000 images submitted by more than 3,800 photographers from 130 countries, are on display. The exhibition includes a total of 24 winning projects, six honourable mentions, as well as two special mentions, awarded by exceptional decision of the jury.

This showcase of global photojournalism offers visitors a striking panorama of international current events through the lens. Each image on display tells a story, captures a crucial moment of our time, and invites reflection on major contemporary issues. From politics to conflicts, through the environment and social upheavals, the World Press Photo exhibition demonstrates the power of photography as a medium for information, emotion, and collective awareness.

This exhibition will leave no one indifferent to the human tragedies, armed conflicts, and climate perils of our time.

This exhibition offers a glimpse of our current world, as exemplified by the header photograph, taken by Zied Ben Romdhane as part of his long-term project titled Escape. The exhibition will leave no one indifferent to the human tragedies, armed conflicts, and climate perils of our time.

Nevertheless, one can’t help but be captivated by the beauty that emerges even in the grief of losing a loved one, as shown in the winning photograph of the contest below. This image, captured in the Gaza Strip by Mohammed Salam, is worth the visit alone.

Photo: Mohammed Salam

Closer to home, a captivating black and white photograph particularly draws the attention of exhibition visitors. This striking image, the work of Quebec photojournalist Charles-Frédérick Ouellet, undoubtedly stands as one of the centrepieces of the event, capturing with poignant intensity a crucial moment from the summer of 2023. That year, Quebec faced a series of forest fires of unprecedented scale, ravaging vast expanses of territory and mobilizing exceptional human resources to combat this environmental disaster.

The protagonist of this memorable image is Théo Dagnaud, a forest firefighter whose silhouette stands out strongly against a devastated landscape. The snapshot captures him at the end of an exhausting day of fierce struggle against the flames, as darkness envelopes the wounded forest. Far from resting, Dagnaud continues his mission with unwavering determination.

Photo: Charles-Frédérick Ouellet

The exhibition continues in the mezzanine space, offering a dual perspective on Quebec photojournalism. On one side, the works of the 2024 winners of the prestigious Antoine Désilet Prize testify to the excellence and vitality of contemporary photojournalism in Quebec.

On the other, a striking retrospective, created in collaboration with Agence Stock Photo, immerses visitors in the moments that have shaped Quebec’s recent history, such as the 1995 Referendum, the 1998 Ice Storm, the 2012 Maple Spring, the 1990 Saint-Amable fire, and the Stanley Cup riot.

Each photograph, carefully selected from the agency’s archives, is a powerful visual testimony of moments that have forged Quebec’s collective identity. By juxtaposing current winners and these historical moments, the exhibition highlights the timeless power of photography as a witness to our era and a vector of emotion.

Bowhead whale butchered on the shore of Kangigsujuaq, near Hudson Strait in Nunavik • Photo: Robert Fréchette

The photograph of Marcel Sabourin captured by Valerian Mazataud at the Cinémathèque québécoise offers a striking portrait of the iconic Quebec actor. Taken on the spot, the image likely reveals Sabourin’s authentic and charismatic personality, known for his memorable roles in Quebec cinema and television.

Mazataud’s talent, as a photographer for Le Devoir, is manifested in his ability to capture a spontaneous and expressive moment, highlighting the very essence of the artist in his natural environment. This photograph accordingly contributes to immortalizing a precious moment in Marcel Sabourin’s career, while emphasizing the importance of the Cinémathèque québécoise as a place of memory and celebration of Quebec cinema.

Marcel Sabourin  (detail) • Photo: Valerian Mazataud, Le Devoir

Funky, the universe of Félix Renaud

Another related exhibition not to be missed, Funky, the universe of Félix Renaud, celebrates the short but prolific career of the Montreal photographer who passed away in February of this year at the age of 37. This talented artist was known for his colourful portraits and cinematic compositions. His distinctive style skillfully blended imagination and reality, always with a touch of intrigue and humour.

Félix Renaud had the word “Funky” tattooed on his arm, reflecting his creative approach and laid-back attitude. His work is inspired by cinema and a whimsical universe, immersing viewers in a world halfway between dream and reality. His passion for funky music and eternal optimism shone through in his works, creating a unique atmosphere that seduced many artists and clients.

Funky, the universe of Félix Renaud

World Press Photo Montreal Expo

General admission: $15 + taxes
Student card, seniors 65+: $12 + taxes
10 years and under free
For more information, visit expo-wppmtl.ca

Images: Jean-François Brucel, unless otherwise stated
Feature image: Zied Ben Romdhane, Evasion

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