The Wellcome Photography Prize 2025
Entering its 28th year, the Wellcome Photography Prize is a celebration of creativity that emphasizes the importance of visual storytelling in the overlapping realms of science, health, and society. This year, the esteemed competition recognizes three talented image-makers: Sujata Setia, Mithail Afrige Chowdhury, and Steve Gschmeissner, each awarded a £10,000 prize for their impactful works that delve into the human experiences behind scientific concepts.
Celebrating Diverse Narratives
A focus of the Wellcome Photography Prize is to unveil the human stories that shape our understanding of health. The submitted images span various themes, including the dire consequences of climate change, domestic abuse, and the intricate details of medical science. Each of the award-winning photographers provides a unique lens through which audiences can appreciate the complexities of health and well-being in contemporary society.
A Thousand Cuts by Sujata Setia
Sujata Setia’s celebrated series, A Thousand Cuts, explores sensitive themes surrounding domestic abuse within South Asian communities. By collaborating with survivors and employing the traditional Indian art of paper-cutting, Setia created portraits that honor identity while ensuring the anonymity of her subjects. This project not only sheds light on personal struggles and generational trauma but also serves as a commentary on the broader issues of representation and societal silence around such matters.
Urban Resilience by Mithail Afrige Chowdhury
Mithail Afrige Chowdhury was acknowledged for his work Urban Travel, depicting a poignant moment between a mother and daughter in Dhaka. This image captures the essence of resilience amid climate challenges, highlighting how urbanization has affected families and their access to nature. Chowdhury's photo, both tender and filled with tension, exemplifies the delicate balance families must maintain in contemporary environments compromised by climate change.
Scientific Insights by Steve Gschmeissner
Steve Gschmeissner's entry, Cholesterol in the Liver, unveils the microscopic world that is often hidden from view. His electron microscopy image reveals significant transformations in cholesterol crystals, providing insight into processes related to heart disease. Gschmeissner’s work is a testament to the potential of scientific imagery as both data representation and artistic expression, pushing the boundaries of how we perceive health at the cellular level.
Showcasing the Best Photography
The top 25 photographs are currently on display at the Wellcome Photography Prize exhibition at the Francis Crick Institute until October. This exhibit is free for the public and is an incredible opportunity to see the powerful intersection between photographic art and scientific narrative. Each finalist has also received a £1,000 prize as recognition of their contribution to this compelling field.
Reflections From the Winners
Each winner has expressed profound gratitude for their recognition, acknowledging that their work can catalyze important conversations about health and society. Sujata Setia emphasized the need for more discourse about the devastating impact of domestic abuse on individual health and community well-being. Mithail Afrige Chowdhury remarked on the emotional renewal this recognition brings, sparking a renewed commitment to his craft amid challenges. Lastly, Steve Gschmeissner spoke of the honor of winning in a category that highlights scientific exploration and artistry.
The Role of the Francis Crick Institute
The Francis Crick Institute, known for its contributions to biomedical research, hosts this exhibition as part of its mission to bridge science and public engagement. With themes resonating across health, environmental issues, and scientific discovery, the exhibition embodies a commitment to making science more accessible and comprehensible through culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Wellcome Photography Prize?
The Wellcome Photography Prize is an annual competition that recognizes compelling photography at the intersection of health and science.
Who are the winners of the 2025 prize?
The winners of the 2025 prize are Sujata Setia, Mithail Afrige Chowdhury, and Steve Gschmeissner, each awarded for their remarkable contributions.
Where can I see the exhibition?
The exhibition is at the Francis Crick Institute, and it is free to the public, running until October.
How many entries were submitted for the prize?
This year, over 100 countries participated, showcasing a diverse array of submissions highlighting global health issues.
Why is visual storytelling important in health?
Visual storytelling plays a crucial role in making complex health topics more relatable and accessible to a broader audience, encouraging public engagement and understanding.
