AIB Press Photographer of the Year exhibition returns to Mayo
IRELAND’S stories in images for 2025 has returned to Mayo, with the Press Photographers Ireland CLG annual exhibition now on display in Westport Town Hall Theatre until August 26.
The official opening will take place this Friday, performed by the cathaoirleach of the Westport-Belmullet Municipal District, Councillor Brendan Mulroy.
Now in its 48th year, the AIB Press Photographer of the Year Awards celebrate the very best of Irish press photography. The exhibition features all the winning and shortlisted images covering Irish life, at home and abroad, during 2025 and highlights the dedication and skill of Ireland’s top press photographers, including Mayo photographer Michael McLaughlin and the overall winner, Mark Condren.
Westport-based Michael McLaughlin picked up two awards - first in the Multimedia category and the special ‘Best Use of Technology’ award with his entry ‘The Ties That Bind’.
Photographer Rynes Walker picked up the ‘Country Life’ award for her entry ‘The one that didn’t get away’ which features young boy, Kyle Kerrigan, catching a ewe whilst herding ewes to the sales ring at Maam Cross Mart for the Connemara/Mayo Blackface Breeders Group Premier Breeding Sale.
Tom Gilligan, director of services, Mayo County Council, said: "We are delighted to welcome the AIB Press Photographer of the Year Exhibition back to Westport. Exhibitions like this make an important contribution to community life in Mayo, bringing people together through shared stories and experiences, while also enhancing the county's appeal as a destination for visitors.
“It is particularly fitting to see the achievements of local award-winning photographer Michael McLaughlin recognised on the national stage, showcasing the heritage, community spirit and sense of place that make Mayo so special.”
Dan Linehan, president, Press Photographers Ireland CLG, said: “We are delighted that the exhibition is visiting Mayo once again. We hope that locals and visitors alike will enjoy browsing the exhibition and viewing the award winning and highly acclaimed photography.”
To view the full portfolio of winning and highly commended images from the AIB Press Photographer of Year Awards, visit pressphotographers.ie.