Museo Camera in Gurugram will present “Life is in Many Days“, a major exhibition by Irish photographer Seamus Murphy, from 22 August to 25 October 2026. Curated by Zelda Cheatle, the exhibition brings together four significant bodies of work produced over more than three decades across Afghanistan, Ireland, India, Russia and the United States. The exhibition explores how photography can document human experience beyond headlines, focusing on everyday lives shaped by history, conflict and culture.
A Photographer Focused on Human Stories
Seamus Murphy is internationally recognised for his long-term documentary projects and has received seven World Press Photo awards. His photographs and films often explore the relationship between individuals and the social and political environments in which they live. Rather than focusing solely on major events, Murphy’s work examines personal experiences, memory and resilience. His photographs are held in collections including the Getty Museum, the Imperial War Museum and the National Gallery of Ireland. Murphy describes his approach as a search for “intimacy and a certain kind of poetic realism,” a quality that has become a defining characteristic of his documentary practice.
Four Bodies of Work Across Continents
The exhibition presents photographs made in different regions and periods of Murphy’s career. One section focuses on The Republic, his personal and reflective portrait of Ireland, documenting everyday moments, traditions and social change. Another body of work draws on Murphy’s repeated visits to Afghanistan since 1994, offering an alternative perspective to conventional conflict photography by highlighting the dignity and humanity of people living through decades of upheaval.
Murphy’s photographs from Kolkata form another key part of the exhibition. These images observe the city’s streets, architecture, workspaces and spiritual life, capturing daily interactions and small gestures that often go unnoticed. Also included is material related to Strange Love, his recent book comparing experiences in Russia and the United States through the lives of ordinary people rather than political narratives.
Highlights of the Exhibition
- Photographs from Ireland, Afghanistan, India, Russia and the United States
- Selections from The Republic
- Images from Murphy’s long-term work in Afghanistan
- Kolkata street photography series
- Works connected to the book Strange Love
- More than three decades of documentary practice brought together in one exhibition
Curatorial Perspective
The exhibition has been curated by Zelda Cheatle, an internationally recognised photography curator, writer and advisor. Over several decades, Cheatle has worked with major photographic collections, archives and institutions worldwide. Her curatorial practice is known for placing photography within broader historical and cultural contexts, helping audiences engage more deeply with visual narratives.
According to Museo Camera founder Aditya Arya, the exhibition reflects the institution’s commitment to presenting significant photographic work and creating opportunities for audiences in India to engage with internationally recognised practitioners.
Museo Camera and Its Photography Programme
The exhibition will take place at Museo Camera, one of India’s leading institutions dedicated to photography. Established from photographer and archivist Aditya Arya’s personal collection, the museum has grown into one of South East Asia’s largest centres for photographic arts. The institution houses historic cameras, archives, photographic equipment and related collections while regularly hosting exhibitions, talks and public programmes.
Visitor Information
| Event | Details |
| Title | Life is in Many Days |
| Photographer | Seamus Murphy |
| Curator | Zelda Cheatle |
| Venue | Museo Camera, Gurugram, Gurugram, Haryana, India |
| Opening Date | 22 August 2026 |
| Exhibition Dates | 22 August – 25 October 2026 |
| Organiser | Museo Camera |
| Website | https://www.museocamera.org |
Conclusion
By bringing together photographs from multiple countries and decades, Life is in Many Days offers an opportunity to reflect on shared human experiences across cultures and borders. Through Murphy’s observational and empathetic approach, the exhibition encourages viewers to look beyond familiar narratives and consider the everyday lives that shape history. For photography audiences in India, the exhibition provides a significant encounter with contemporary documentary practice and its ability to connect people through visual storytelling.
