Athens Photo World 2026: Sir Don McCullin, World Cup History, and Photojournalism Elite Arrive in Athens
Athens Photo World (APW), the most significant institution for photojournalism in Greece, is back for its 8th consecutive year. With the support of PPC, the festival presents an international program from January to August 2026, bringing the city’s audience into contact with the power of images and historical documentation.
Sir Don McCullin: An “Eyewitness” at Technopolis
The highlight of this year’s program is the exhibition “Life, Death and Everything in Between” by the legendary war photojournalist, Sir Don McCullin. For more than 50 years, McCullin has documented human suffering from Vietnam to Lebanon, always returning to conflict zones out of a deep sense of responsibility.
- Talk: Saturday, February 28, 2026 (7:00 PM – 8:00 PM) – Sir Don McCullin in dialogue with Christina Kalligianni.
- Opening: Saturday, February 28, 2026 (8:30 PM) at the Old Ovens (Technopolis).
- Duration: February 28 – March 12, 2026 (Free Admission).
Education and Digital Projections
On Sunday, March 1, APW focuses on the new generation and contemporary documentary photography at Technopolis:
- Masterclass Enri Canaj: The internationally acclaimed Magnum Photos photographer offers 14 free spots for young photographers.
- Digital Projections: A 45-minute slide-show curated by Giannis Kolessidis, featuring works by: Alexandros Avramidis, Maro Kouri, Stelios Missinas, Socrates Baltagiannis, Kostas Tsironis, and Nikos Hatzipolitis.
Athens Photo World 2026 Awards
The institution actively supports professionals in the field with significant monetary prizes. The awards will be presented by the Mayor of Athens, Haris Doukas.
- Photojournalism & Documentary Award: A total of 6,000 euros (3,000 for the 1st prize). Finalists: Eleni Albaroza, Angelos Tzortzinis, Nikos Hatzipolitis.
- Sports Photography Award: Prize of 1,500 euros (with the support of Kaizen Gaming). Finalists: Alex Grymanis, Nikolaos Zagas, Michalis Themelis.
Summer at the National Garden: “World Cup 1930 – 2026”
From May 24 to July 31, APW’s largest outdoor exhibition will adorn the fence of the National Garden (Vasilissis Sofias & Amalias). Through the Associated Press archive, visitors will journey through the history of the World Cup, from 1930 in Uruguay to the upcoming 2026 event in North America.
Summary of Events Program
| Date | Activity | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| February 28 | Talk & Opening Sir Don McCullin | Technopolis (Old Ovens) |
| March 1 | Masterclass Enri Canaj & Digital Projections | Technopolis (Amphitheater) |
| March 1 | APW 2026 Awards Ceremony | Technopolis |
| May 24 – July 31 | Exhibition “World Cup 1930-2026” | National Garden (Outdoor) |
Source: https://stagenews.gr/athens-photo-world-2026-programma-mccullin/
