Commuters and travellers passing through Nice, Marseille Saint-Charles, Cannes, and Paris Gare de Lyon will find themselves immersed in the vibrant, fragile world of the Mediterranean. A new photography exhibition, curated by the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco in partnership with SNCF Gares & Connexions, has transformed these bustling transit hubs into galleries dedicated to the beauty and ecological challenges of the sea.
The exhibition features the work of internationally renowned Nice-born photographer Greg Lecoeur. Over the past 15 years, Lecoeur has travelled the globe’s oceans, earning awards such as National Geographic’s ‘Nature Photographer of the Year’ and ‘Underwater Photographer of the Year’. His large-format images offer a stark contrast between the pristine, wild beauty of the Mediterranean and the mounting pressures of human impact—from pollution and maritime traffic to the rising threats of climate change and over-tourism.
From transit hubs to centres of awareness
The installations act as a bridge between the public and the Oceanographic Institute of Monaco’s century-long commitment to ocean science and protection. The exhibition does more than showcase artistic talent; it serves as a call to action. By presenting the reality of current threats, the photographs invite viewers to consider the state of the Mediterranean by 2050, encouraging a collective shift toward a more sustainable and well-managed maritime future.
Extending the journey to Monaco
For those inspired by the displays in the stations, the journey can be extended to the source. The Oceanographic Museum of Monaco is hosting an extension of the exhibition in its conference hall, alongside the immersive ‘Mediterranean 2050’ experience. This installation is available from 12th June through to the Toussaint school holidays and is included with the standard museum entry ticket. Visitors can dive deeper into the themes of the exhibition, exploring the economic and ecological stakes of the region through interactive displays.
Culture in motion
The partnership between the Oceanographic Museum and SNCF Gares & Connexions reflects a shared ambition to bring environmental awareness into the heart of daily life. By placing art directly into the flow of transit, the project aims to turn train stations—already points of connection—into hubs of education and reflection, empowering every traveller to become a steward of the Grande Bleue.
The exhibition will remain on display in the four participating stations until 31st August 2026.
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Photography by Greg Lecoeur on display at the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco / Photo credit: A Calascione