Festival Photo Martagny

A Norman village transformed into a global photographic gallery

Every summer since 2017, the peaceful little village of Martagny, nestled in the Vexin normand region on the edge of the Lyons national forest, transforms into an international-scale photographic exhibition space. The Festival Photo Martagny, organized by the association Visions d'Ailleurs, displays around ten exhibitions featuring over 200 large-format photographs across 5 hectares of green space. Entirely free and accessible 24 hours a day from June to September, the festival has established itself in just a few years as a must-attend event for contemporary photography in Normandy.

Internationally renowned photographers

The strength of the Festival Photo Martagny lies in the exceptional quality of its programming. Each edition invites internationally renowned professional photographers, from diverse backgrounds and styles, to exhibit their work in this bucolic Norman setting. Reportage, portrait, landscape, wildlife photography, artistic creation: the diversity of approaches offers visitors a rich and renewed panorama of global contemporary photography. The large-format prints, displayed outdoors, take on a spectacular dimension in the green landscape of Martagny.

An immersive journey in nature

The festival unfolds in the meadows, paths, and wooded areas of the village of Martagny, creating a discovery trail that blends art and nature. The photographs are installed along a walking route that winds through the green spaces, inviting visitors to a contemplative stroll. The immersion in nature, the birdsong, and the Norman light bring a unique sensory dimension to the contemplation of the works. It is this alliance between museum-quality photography and a countryside setting that gives the festival its originality and charm.

Growing success crowned by Europe

Since its creation in 2017, the Festival Photo Martagny has experienced spectacular growth. The last edition attracted over 12,000 visitors, confirming the attractiveness of this event that resonates far beyond the department's borders. In 2024, the festival was awarded the Trophée des Étoiles de l'Europe in the heritage, culture, and tourism category, a prestigious recognition that celebrates the festival's contribution to the cultural influence of the region. European financial support has also contributed to the development of this innovative cultural project in a rural area.

The association Visions d'Ailleurs, the driving force behind the festival

The festival is driven by the association Visions d'Ailleurs, whose commitment and passion make it possible to maintain the event's complete freeness and ensure a high-level program. The association mobilizes volunteers and partners to manage the exhibition setup, public reception, and organization of complementary events (openings, meetings with photographers, screenings). This exemplary associative work makes the Festival Photo Martagny a model of cultural democratization in rural areas.