Annual General Meeting (AGM)

Since its inception, Magnum Photos has been holding an Annual General Meeting in either New York, London or Paris. The AGM brings together Magnum photographers, photographer estates and the agency’s international staff to discuss company business.

It’s a creative meeting of minds; an opportunity to review work, discuss the year ahead and voting on potential new member, associate and nominee photographers. Alongside business decisions Magnum programs an exciting schedule of public events, allowing our audience a greater connection to Magnum and our photographers.

The 2022 AGM took place in New York alongside a public events program celebrating the agency’s 75th anniversary.

During the AGM, the following motions were passed:

• Cristina de Middel becomes a member
• Emin Özmen becomes a member
• Lindokuhle Sobekwa becomes a member
• Sabiha Çimen becomes an associate
• Yael Martínez becomes an associate

Having become a full member, de Middel stepped up to become the next President, taking over from Olivia Arthur.

“I am, of course, honored and also conscious of the responsibility,” says de Middel. “I have never been a president of anything before, but if hard work and respect for the role and the legacy of Magnum is what it takes, then I should be fine. I hope that I can continue the great work that the previous presidents have done, and that I manage to contribute with new ideas and enthusiasm for the group.”

Arthur, who has seen Magnum through a turbulent period, becoming President in 2020, during the pandemic, commented: “It has been an honor to serve the organization that I love as its president for the past two years and to be there as we celebrated our 75th anniversary. I am also delighted to hand the baton over to someone who I know will continue the mission to lead us with her energy and thoughtfulness. I am excited to see the next years unfold for the future of Magnum.”

The AGM was led by Magnum’s outgoing CEO, Caitlin Griffiths, who invited the public to join the agency’s celebration’s throughout the anniversary. “We hope lots of people will join us in conversation at these different events around the world,” she said. “Our 75th anniversary is the stage for critical conversation about the world we live in, the changing role of documentary photography, and the future we shape with contributions to arts and culture.”