Photographie Mon Amour

Photography takes over the Basilique Saint-Vincent

The Photographie Mon Amour festival was born in 2023 from a desire to create a major photography event in Metz, by taking over an exceptional heritage site: the Basilique Saint-Vincent. This vast 13th-century Gothic building, with its high vaults and light filtered through stained glass, offers a spectacular setting for the exhibition of large-format photographic prints. The contrast between the solemnity of the sacred place and the modernity of the works presented creates a unique visitor experience.

Exhibitions by renowned photographers

Each edition presents the work of several nationally and internationally renowned photographers. The festival explores the diversity of contemporary photography, from documentary reporting to artistic photography, including portraiture and nature photography. The exhibitions are carefully mounted in the various spaces of the basilica, creating an immersive journey that dialogues with the architecture.

An artist in residence

One of the most original aspects of Photographie Mon Amour is its artist residency program. Each year, a photographer is invited to stay in Metz to create a new work, inspired by the city and its region. This original creation is unveiled during the festival's main weekend, offering a fresh and unique perspective on Metz. In 2025, photographer Nicolas Boutruche was the artist in residence for this third edition.

A weekend of encounters

While the exhibitions are visible for nearly two months, the festival culminates in a main weekend full of events: artist meet-and-greets, guided tours, photography workshops open to all levels, stands and meeting spaces, and a photo market where you can purchase art prints. These days of encounters bring the festival to life in a friendly and participatory way.

Free and accessible

The Photographie Mon Amour festival is committed to total free access to its exhibitions, making photographic art accessible to the greatest number of people. This open access policy, supported by the City of Metz and its partners, allows it to reach a large and diverse audience, far beyond just photography enthusiasts.

A growing festival

Since its creation in 2023, Photographie Mon Amour has found its place in Metz's cultural calendar and has quickly established itself as an anticipated spring event. The festival contributes to enriching Metz's cultural offerings, a city already known for its artistic events like Constellations or the Centre Pompidou-Metz, by adding a quality photographic dimension.