Visitors to Monaco’s Fishermen’s Gallery are being offered a rare glimpse behind the scenes of archaeological discovery thanks to a striking new photography exhibition unveiled by the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology of Monaco.
Titled Fouilles (“Excavations”), the exhibition showcases an original series of photographs by Stéphane Gamelin, capturing the painstaking reality of archaeological fieldwork far beyond the museum display case.
Rather than focusing solely on ancient artefacts, the exhibition turns its attention to the people and processes behind scientific discovery — from excavation sites and delicate brushwork to the research and analysis that bring buried history back to life.
Through immersive imagery, Gamelin documents the physical intensity, precision and patience required in modern archaeology, offering visitors a closer understanding of the discipline’s often unseen work.
Known for blending photography, storytelling and graphic design, Gamelin has built a distinctive visual style heavily influenced by his background in the nautical and marine worlds. His work frequently explores themes of exploration, transmission and human connection to environment and history — elements that resonate strongly throughout Fouilles.
The exhibition forms part of the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology’s ongoing efforts to make archaeology more accessible to the public by presenting scientific work through contemporary artistic perspectives. Fouilles will remain on display at Fishermen’s Gallery until Sunday, June 28.
Directorate of Communication / Manuel Vitali