Now in its 48th year, the AIB Press Photographer of the Year exhibition showcases the very best of Irish press photography, featuring winning and shortlisted images capturing life in Ireland and abroad during 2025.
The display includes work by Mr Condren, who recently secured a record seventh Press Photographer of the Year title, cementing his reputation as one of the country’s most accomplished photojournalists.
President Catherine Connolly embraces her campaign manager Danny Callanan, after she was deemed elected before leaving the Galway West count centre. Photo: Mark Condren
Also on display will be a photograph from press photographer Gerry Mooney, also of the Irish Independent, who won the award for Best Public Relations photo for his image of Agriculture Minister Martin Heydon struggling to lead Simmental cattle at the launch of the 2025 National Ploughing Championship last year.
‘Ministerial Struggle’: Agriculture Minister Martin Heydon with Tiger Lilly and Tempting Tessa at the launch of the 2025 National Ploughing Championships. Photo: Gerry Mooney
AIB chief executive Colin Hunt praised the “outstanding work” of all entrants, saying “they hold a mirror up to our villages and townlands”.
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council said it was “delighted” to host the exhibition, which is the first stop on its national tour.
Councillor Maurice Dockrell, representing the Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, said the exhibition offered visitors a chance to engage with powerful visual storytelling.
“Public libraries play a vital role in connecting people with culture, creativity and new perspectives, and this exhibition is a perfect example of that,” he said.
“These powerful images invite us to reflect on the stories and experiences that shape life in Ireland. We are proud to be the first stop on the national tour and I warmly encourage everyone in our community to visit and enjoy this exhibition.”
The exhibition brings together more than 100 images and videos reviewed across multiple categories, highlighting the dedication and skill of Ireland’s leading press photographers.
Chief executive of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council Frank Curran said the exhibition was a key cultural event for the local authority.
Launch of the AIB Press Photographers Exhibition in the dlr LexIcon, Dun Laoghaire.
“We are very pleased to welcome the AIB Press Photographer of the Year Award exhibition back to dlr LexIcon,” he said.
“This event is a highlight in our cultural calendar and showcases the incredible work of Ireland’s press photographers. Exhibitions like this bring people together, spark conversation and offer free access to high-quality arts experiences for our communities.”
Press Photographers Ireland president David Branigan also praised Mr Condren’s work, describing it as a powerful reminder of the importance of authentic imagery in an era of misinformation.
“Despite the external noise of fake images and AI-generated doubt, Mark Condren’s work is a reminder of the need not only for truthful images but also technical skills and creativity,” he said.
“Winning this sought-after award makes him a worthy champion for all photographers.”
The exhibition features striking images spanning news, daily life, sport, politics and the arts, capturing defining moments and everyday scenes from across the country and beyond.
Mr Condren, from Castletownroche, Co Cork, is widely recognised for his human-interest photography and cutting-edge imagery, with a career that began in local newspaper The Avondhu before roles at The Corkman and the Sunday Tribune.
The AIB Press Photographer of the Year exhibition will run at dlr LexIcon until March 22, with free admission for the public.