Encontros da Imagem photography festival returns to Portugal

The 36th edition of Encontros da Imagem, an international festival of photography and visual arts, will take place from September 18 to November 1, 2026. Centered on the theme ‘Territórios do Imaginário | Lugares Encantados’, the festival features over 30 exhibitions by national and international artists.

The programming is distributed across various locations, primarily in Braga, but also extending to Guimarães, Porto, Vila Verde, and Avintes. In Braga, exhibitions will be held in approximately 20 spaces, including the Museu Nogueira da Silva, Mosteiro de Tibães, and Theatro Circo. In Guimarães, events will include the B-Lounge at the University of Minho and Convívio.

Artistic works will address contemporary global issues such as the Mediterranean migration crisis, the war in Ukraine, and the effects of climate change. Featured artists include Cooper & Gorfer, César Dezfuli, Ciril Jazbec, Tânia Dinis, and Eurico Lino do Vale. The festival also includes film cycles, portfolio readings, and artistic residencies. This year's edition received over 600 applications for its competitive awards.