MaxEx 31 returns as Photo students exhibit thesis work

Maximum Exposure, better known as MaxEx, the annual exhibition featuring the work of Photography Media Arts students is starting on April 24, until May 3, 2026.

The free event marks the yearly celebration of the Creative School’s emerging photographers, filmmakers and artists-at-large — and is run by students in the School of Image Arts.

“The time spent working on this show has been really good for getting closer to people in other organizations and building genuine connections in the arts,” said Balthazar Alfred, a fourth-year Photography Media Arts student. He is the finance and fundraising coordinator for MaxEx this year. “That will hopefully lead to a job with like-minded people that I can really call my friends.”

This year marks the 31st celebration, where the theme is Reverie — or the “state of being pleasantly lost in one's thoughts; a daydream.”

Chloë Shia, a fourth-year Photography Media Arts student, serving as the projects and operations manager for MaxEx, said the theme was “inspired by the transformational power of the creative process.”

Days for the MaxEx team have been long — 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for some, with time set for admin work, spreadsheets and the like in the after hours, as they do everything to get the event ready for opening night on April 24.

“There’s no way we could put this on without volunteers so we’re very grateful for everyone’s help,” Shia said. “We’ve already moved the walls, set them up, and painted them. Next week we’ll set up the lighting and signage, install all of the work, and get the building ready for Opening Night!”

Starting on the 24th, members of the public are invited to stop by the showcase at 122 Bond St., pick up merchandise and get to know the artists of the future. The exhibition takes place throughout the building and lasts until May 3, open 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. every day.

“Tell your friends, people from other universities, people from other cities, everyone, to come to this year's MaxEx show,” Alfred said. “We, as usual, are going to have some of the best photographic work in Toronto on display, on top of being able to meet and talk with so many professionals who come to the school to also see the work.”

“This exhibition is so special because it’s student-run, and so much care and collaboration has gone into putting the show together. It’s not just about the final images but also the ideas, experimentation, and growth behind them,” Shia added.

For more information on MaxEx, keep tabs on their Instagram page (external link) .