Montreal’s Must-See Photographic Art Exhibits in 2025

Montreal’s photography scene is on fire in 2025, blending past, present, and future through stunning exhibits. From architectural snapshots to cutting-edge biennales, there’s something for every art lover. Here’s your definitive list of photography-focused shows, ordered chronologically by opening date—complete with details, links, and vivid visuals to get you pumped. Let’s dive into the city’s visual feast!

Inuit Universe

This gem at the McCord Stewart Museum celebrates contemporary Inuit artist Manasie Akpaliapik from Baffin Island. Pairing photography with intricate sculptures, it’s a vivid tribute to Inuit culture—catch it before it wraps up in early spring.

Exhibit Dates: Now – March 9, 2025

McCord Stewart Museum – Inuit Universe

Being There: Photography in Arthur Erickson’s Early Travel Diaries

Over at the Canadian Centre for Architecture, explore architect Arthur Erickson’s travel photography from the 1950s and ‘60s. Shot across Europe, North Africa, and Asia, these images reveal his knack for capturing landscapes and structures—think vintage vibes with a modern twist.

Exhibit Dates: Now – March 16, 2025

Canadian Centre for Architecture – Being There

Joyce Wieland: Heart On

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts dives into Joyce Wieland’s subversive genius with this retrospective. Featuring 100 works, including experimental film and photographic elements, it’s a bold mix of humor and heart—on display through spring.

Exhibit Dates: Now – May 4, 2025

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts – Joyce Wieland: Heart On

Andrew Jackson: Evolving Montréal

British-Canadian artist Andrew Jackson turns his lens on Little Burgundy’s evolution in this McCord Stewart Museum exhibit. Part of the Evolving Montréal series, it’s a photographic deep-dive into urban change and the neighborhood’s Black Anglophone roots—raw and real.

Exhibit Dates: February 21, 2025 – September 28, 2025

McCord Stewart Museum – Andrew Jackson: Evolving Montréal

Emerging Artists Exhibition

The Montreal Art Center & Museum showcases local up-and-comers in this group exhibit. Photography takes the stage alongside painting and sculpture—perfect for spotting fresh talent and new takes on Montreal’s visual pulse.

Exhibit Dates: March 22, 2025 – April 5, 2025

Montreal Art Center & Museum – Emerging Artists Exhibition (Note: URL speculative; confirm closer to the date)

Expo World Press Photo Montreal

Marché Bonsecours hosts this global powerhouse of photojournalism every year. Featuring the 2025 World Press Photo Contest winners, it’s a jaw-dropping collection of images that tell the world’s toughest, most beautiful stories—don’t miss it.

Exhibit Dates: August 27, 2025 – October 13, 2025

World Press Photo Montreal (Note: URL based on past editions; verify for 2025)

MOMENTA Biennale d’art contemporain: In Praise of the Missing Image

Curated by Marie-Ann Yemsi, the 19th MOMENTA Biennale hits multiple Montreal venues with a fresh take on photography and absence. Exploring time and history through what’s not shown, it’s a mind-bending mix of contemporary art—fall’s big ticket.

Exhibit Dates: September 2025 – October 2025 (exact dates TBD)

MOMENTA Biennale – In Praise of the Missing Image

Pro Tip: Dates might shift as 2025 rolls on—keep these links handy and double-check closer to your visit. Montreal’s photography lineup this year is a stunner, from gritty street shots to conceptual masterpieces. Which one’s calling your name? Drop your thoughts below!