PHOTO OXFORD 2027
DETAILS COMING SOON
Stéphanie Hubert, Sleeping Beauty 2, The Departure, 2025
Photo Oxford 2027 is taking shape…
We’re preparing an exciting programme of exhibitions and events for autumn 2027. Details coming mid-October, so check back soon for an announcement on the 2027 theme and our plans for a fantastic new programme.
More to come. Watch this space.
PHOTO OXFORD 2025
Truth was the theme for the fifth edition of Photo Oxford in 2025 and we explored what this increasingly loaded word means within the context of photography. From images that reveal current debates around Artificial Intelligence, to those that highlight the stories missing from photographic records, it was an exploration of truth in photography that considered how far and wide the boundaries of this continuously expanding medium have become.
The festival achieved substantial success, attracting over 165,000 visitors* and significantly exceeding Arts Council targets. It showcased 120 artists, with 30 exhibitions held across Oxford and online, complemented by 24 events. Over 1,030 artists from 65 countries entered the festival Open Call, over 200 school and university students explored the festival on guided visits and 288 community participants were involved in the outreach programme with local community and charity groups.
*This figure includes visitor numbers to public spaces where exhibitions were held and are not necessarily direct audience figures.
Image: From the series Angel Unveiled by Maryam Saeedpoor
Jenny Lewis, Lydia Goldblatt and Festival Director Katy Barron in conversation at The Old Fire Station. Photo: Maggie Lamming
Marlene Smith talking about her work at Modern Art Oxford. Photo: Crystal Constance
Patricia Baker-Cassidy speaking about Paddy Summerfield's work at the Weston Library. Photo: David Stumpp
Joel Meyerowitz delivering the Richard Benson Lecture in the Reproduced Image at the Weston Library. Photo: Rob Judges
Photo Oxford 2025 Portfolio Reviews. Photo: Crystal Constance
Katy Barron and Jillian Edelstein at The North Wall Gallery. Photo: Paul Bullivant
Katy Barron and Olivia Arthur at Worcester College. Photo: Paul Bullivant
Martin Parr speaking at the festival launch at the Weston Library. Photo: Paul Bullivant
PARTNERSHIP PROJECTS
PARTNERSHIP PROJECTS
Photo Oxford Festival works closely with communities across Oxford and Oxfordshire, using photography as a creative way for people to express themselves, build confidence, and learn new skills.
We collaborate with local partners such as Yellow Submarine, Aspire Oxford, Crisis, Mind Oxforshire and My Vision Oxfordshire to run welcoming workshops and projects that support people with a wide range of experiences and abilities. Together, we explore photography as a tool for storytelling, connection, and creativity — while also helping participants develop practical skills they can use in everyday life, from communication to teamwork and employability.
