New York 
May 1 
Celebrating a Century of Leica Innovation
The special exhibition is among the 12 global showcases marking the 100th anniversary of the Leica I.
Leica Store & Gallery New York's Landmark Exhibition
In honor of the Leica I's 100th anniversary, the Leica Store & Gallery in New York is thrilled to showcase 100 YEARS OF LEICA. This significant exhibition celebrates a century of photographic innovation. Over the past 100 years, Leica photography has captured numerous remarkable moments that are now displayed in the expanding network of 29 Leica Galleries globally. These galleries serve as cultural, artistic, and educational intermediaries, embracing the important social responsibility of balancing contemporary photography with the classic icons of the past.
Fostering a Dialogue Between Past and Present
To mark this milestone, Leica has introduced a special concept that creates a dialogue between past and present photography. Each month, a Leica Gallery will open an exhibition pairing a contemporary photographer with a Leica Hall of Fame winner. This will result in twelve engaging pairs of works that complement, reference, and inspire each other. The New York exhibition, titled In Conversation: A Photographic Dialogue Between Yesterday and Today, will display the works of Leica Hall of Fame winner Bruce Davidson and acclaimed artist Sara Messinger, highlighting Leica's transformative impact on photography.
Bruce Davidson and Sara Messinger: A Photographic Dialogue
Bruce Davidson's work, Brooklyn Gang, will be exhibited alongside Sara Messinger's Teenagers, creating a conversation between two subjects separated by decades. Throughout history, teenagers have frequently been a subject in photography, revealing glimpses of their ever-evolving yet perennial spirit. In 1959, Bruce Davidson followed a Brooklyn gang called The Jokers, documenting their alienated youth culture. At just 25, Davidson embarked on his first major project, not much older than the youths in his photos. This became the classic photo project Brooklyn Gang, a collection of images portraying the tough lives and visions of youth in post-war New York City.
"Capturing the daily lives of The Jokers allowed me to witness their fear, depression, and anger that bonded many of them together in a time of need, I soon realized that I was feeling some of their pain. In staying close to them, I uncovered my own feelings of failure, frustration, and rage."
Bruce Davidson
Photographer
Sara Messinger's Approach to Photography
Inspired by Bruce Davidson, Sara Messinger has spent four years documenting a group of New York City youth. Immersing herself in their lives, Sara captures their stories while embarking on her own self-discovery, linking her past to the vibrant lives of her subjects.
"Bruce Davidson's Brooklyn Gang left a profound impression on me and ultimately shaped my philosophy as a photographer," said Sara Messinger. "His way of working by embedding himself in the world that he was documenting, became pivotal in my own practice as a photographer. I aim to capture both intimacy and honesty, and through that, many of my subjects have also become close personal friends over time."
A Showcase of Documentary Photography
This exhibition presents the raw, gritty work of both Davidson and Messinger, showcasing the forefront of documentary photography with a strong sense of storytelling. Through their lenses, they demonstrate that despite the time separating their works, the open heart of the New York City teenager remains unchanged. Visitors to the Leica Store & Gallery New York can experience Leica's enduring legacy and the lasting impact these photographers have had on the community.
100 years of Leica: Witness to a century In 2025, Leica Camera AG is celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Leica I, the first 35mm mass-produced camera, which was introduced to the public at the Leipzig Spring Fair in 1925. This groundbreaking camera exceeded all expectations with its compact, portable design, unlocking new possibilities in photography. Under the theme 100 Years of Leica: Witness to a Century, Leica Camera AG commemorates this milestone that transformed photography worldwide. Throughout the year, Leica will host international events in major cities including Dubai, Milan, New York, Shanghai, and Tokyo, showcasing cultural projects and exclusive special product editions. The highlight of the celebration will be the anniversary week in June at the company's headquarters in Wetzlar. Additionally, the global Leica Gallery network will feature high-caliber exhibitions showcasing works by renowned photographers.
Exhibition Hours: Leica Gallery New York is open Monday through Saturday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, and Sunday from 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM. Leica Store and Gallery Meatpacking District NYC 406 W 13th St. New York, NY 10014 332-222-1690
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the theme of the Leica centenary celebration?
The theme is "100 Years of Leica: Witness to a Century," celebrating the Leica I's 100th anniversary.
Where is the exhibition "In Conversation" being held?
The exhibition is held at the Leica Store & Gallery in New York.
Who are the featured photographers in the New York exhibition?
The exhibition features Bruce Davidson and Sara Messinger.
What is the significance of the Leica I camera?
The Leica I was the first 35mm mass-produced camera, introduced in 1925, revolutionizing photography.
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