Interview Noord Hollands Dagblad

An interview in the Dutch Newspaper Het Noord Hollands Dagblad by Nanska van de Laar, about my work and exhibition Inner Movement.

(English translation below)

Interview: Monique Belier Makes Her Home Debut

Images That Speak Body Language

She has exhibited in Amsterdam and Paris, but doing so in Bovenkarspel feels particularly nerve-wracking. Still, it was time to take the plunge, so photographer Monique Belier is showcasing her work this weekend at the Meisjesschool.

Bovenkarspel

Her home debut makes her a bit nervous, Monique admits as she walks up the stairs to her studio in the former Meisjesschool. “It’s different when you do this in your own environment.”

The former dance instructor and dancer from Bovenkarspel found a new love through the camera, and after experiencing burnout, she discovered a new focus. Last year, she graduated from the Photo Academy in Amsterdam with her project *Where the Spirit Meets the Bone*, which immediately drew attention.

“That book really set everything in motion. Without planning it, I kind of put myself on the map.”

Personal Interpretation

Monique never intended to photograph dance. “I find that a bit dull, so I just started experimenting a lot until I created images that no longer felt like dance or just a beautiful pose. It became something else—it became a story.”

A story that makes the unspoken visible, as body language is Monique’s native tongue. That same language translates into her photography. “When you dance, it’s the most natural language, but figuring out how to convey that in still images is a challenge. Suddenly, they become fragments.”

Those fragments are expressive, and together, they form a powerful visual language—one Monique continues to explore in greater depth. “While working on my graduation project, I read *Vaslav* by Arthur Japin, about Vaslav Nijinsky, and his story deeply moved me.”

Nijinsky

So much so that Monique decided to delve into the life of this legendary dancer (1890–1950). “There isn’t much known about him after he was admitted to a clinic, where he remained for the rest of his life. He hardly spoke and no longer danced, yet he was a genius. I want to visualize what was going on inside his mind. Of course, it’s still my own personal interpretation. It won’t be a documentary or a factual account of his life, but rather a dialogue between his language and mine.”

She sees parallels with her own life. “I don’t want to compare myself to him, but I also stopped dancing. The question is: does that mean you’re no longer a dancer? Of course not—dance continues to play a role in your mind.”

“When I read his diaries, I strongly feel the urgency with which he tried to translate his emotions into language. I feel that same urgency to express mine through images. I used to communicate through dance, and I had to find a new way to do that.”

Nijinsky’s struggles with depression also resonate with Monique. She openly shares that she has an anxiety disorder—she doesn’t drive and avoids escalators. “I’m not ashamed of it. I talk about it, and I hear more and more people admitting their fears. I believe we should be open about these things and not make a big deal out of them. Honestly, I’d rather stay at home under a blanket, but that’s not a life.”

From Paris to Bovenkarspel

Despite these challenges, she has an inner drive that keeps her moving. After her graduation project, she created a short photo series about anxiety disorders and then started *In Search of Nijinsky*. “A selection from these three projects was featured in my first solo exhibition, *Inner Movement*, last summer at Atelier K84 in Amsterdam. I then participated in a group exhibition in Paris. It was incredible to see my work displayed there. You can’t even imagine that while you’re still in school—just surreal.”

From Paris to Bovenkarspel, where this weekend she presents *Inner Movement*. “My husband suggested that people here might also enjoy seeing my work, but I thought, ‘Why would anyone care about my art?’ I don’t even like being in the spotlight. I’m happy to talk about my work, but you won’t catch me standing on a stage.”

Yet, after six months of contemplation, she decided to take the step—and now, in her own modest way, she will stand on that dreaded stage. “I’ll say something about my work. I hate it, but it’s good practice. Exhibiting here in Bovenkarspel is exciting, but I already know that after this weekend, I’ll need time to recover. It’s intense and overwhelming.”

Hometown exhibition

(English below)

Na een aantal weken het wat rustiger aan te hebben gedaan, is het tijd voor iets nieuws.
In het weekend van 31 januari exposeer ik in mijn eigen dorp—het dorp waar ik ben opgegroeid en waar ik nu woon.

Op een prachtige locatie, de voormalige Meisjesschool in Bovenkarspel, waar ik ook mijn studio heb, zal ik het hele weekend mijn werk exposeren.
De expositie toont beelden uit mijn boekproject Where the Spirit Meets the Bone, samen met een introductie en experimenteel werk uit mijn huidige project In Search for Nijinsky. Daarnaast presenteer ik een tweeluik getiteld Treading Water, alles verbonden door het overkoepelende thema Inner Movement.

Het is de eerste keer dat ik in mijn eigen dorp exposeer, en eerlijk gezegd vind ik het een beetje spannender dan normaal.
Misschien is dat ook de reden dat ik het zo lang heb uitgesteld. Toch ben ik blij met deze beslissing—mijn werk komt mooi tot zijn recht tegen de oude muren van de school. De ruimte voegt echt iets bijzonders toe en is een van de weinige plekken in ons dorp die beschikbaar zijn voor kunstenaars.
Dat ik 17 jaar lang mijn theaterschool in dit dorp heb gerund, maakt het extra speciaal om hier nu te exposeren.

Vernissage:
31 januari
19:00–21:00

Te bezoeken:
1 & 2 februari
12:00–17:00

Adres: Hoofdstraat 201, Bovenkarspel - Atelier op de 1e verdieping (geen lift)
(Parkeren aan de achterkant en station Bovenkarspel - Flora op 5 minuten loopafstand)

After taking it a bit easier for a few weeks, it's time for new things again.
On the weekend of January 31st, I’ll be exhibiting in my own village—the place where I grew up and where I still live.

At a beautiful location, the former Girls' School in Bovenkarspel, where I also have my studio, I’ll be showcasing my work throughout the weekend.

The exhibition features images from my book project Where the Spirit Meets the Bone, alongside an introduction to and experimental work from my current project In Search for Nijinsky. Additionally, I’ll be presenting a diptych titled Treading Water, all connected by the overarching theme of Inner Movement.

This is the first time I’m exhibiting in my own village, and I must admit, it feels a little more exciting than usual.
Perhaps that’s also why I’ve postponed it for so long. Still, I’m glad I made this decision—the work fits well within the old walls of the school. The space adds a unique atmosphere and is one of the few places available to artists in our village.

Having run my theater school in this village for 17 years makes it feel even more special to exhibit here now.

Vernissage:
January 31
19:00–21:00

Open to visit:
February 1 & 2
12:00–17:00

Address: Hoofdstraat 201, Bovenkarspel - Studio on the 1st floor (no elevator)
(Parking at the back and Bovenkarspel - Flora station within 5 minutes walking distance)

Berlin

The last trip of 2024 was to Berlin—a small holiday together with my love. I had never been to Berlin before, and I fell in love with the city straight away. We walked for hours without a plan, and I simply took photos of things that resonated with me or inspired me. It felt more like practice than a purposeful endeavor.

On New Year’s Eve, I got sick again—a mild cold caught me, but it made me reflect on my health. Last year was incredibly hectic, filled with adventures and amazing opportunities, but it was also a bit overwhelming.

In the coming year, instead of constantly running around, I want to focus on my latest project. Hopefully, by the end of the year, I’ll complete a dummy for my new book. I also want to leave some space for unexpected things that might come my way.

Polycopies & Exhibition in Paris

As I sat at home recovering from a cold, it seemed like a whirlwind of photography events was happening all around. It feels as though everything always gets packed into the first three months of the new season.

I had really wanted to attend Paris Photo, but it just became too much—and then I fell ill. In hindsight, it’s probably a good thing I didn’t go. My work was still there, though. One of my new images from my project In Search of Nijinsky was curated by Slavica Veselinovic for the group exhibition Corporeality by Art Icon, held at the Bastille Design Center, right in the heart of Paris.

My book, Where the Spirit Meets the Bone, was showcased on the Self Publishers United table during Polycopies. For those who aren't familiar, Polycopies is a paradise for photobook lovers. It takes place every year on a large multi-level boat anchored in the middle of the Seine, drawing together the entire photobook publishing world, photographers, and enthusiasts alike.
A delightful surprise was that Temps Mort, a collaborative publication from the Masterclass in Greece, had also been completed. Edited by Raymond Meeks, this book was also on display at Polycopies.

In addition to my work in Paris, one of my images are being exhibited at the Head On Photo Festival in Sydney, which runs until December 1st. It feels surreal to think that my work is currently hanging on the other side of the world.

From November 22st to 24th, there’s another photobook festival in Amersfoort, where I’ll be interviewed by poet and writer Twan Vet about my book on the 24th. Something that always makes me feel very nervous, but that I believe I must do anyway. The festival features a series of interviews with creators and book tables showcasing the latest in photobooks.

Amidst the busyness of the past few months, I’m continuing to work on my project, In Search of Nijinsky, which I ultimately want to publish as a book. I'm researching Nijinsky's life, focusing especially on the period from his institutionalization until his death. I’m exploring parallels and investigating how dance may have played a role—or could have played a role—during that time. The project combines archival material with new images. For me, a book is the perfect medium for telling photographic stories.

Akrotiri & Fira, Santorini

A series of images shot between September 15 and 22, 2024 during and after a masterclass by Raymond Meeks organized by Palm Tree workshops in Akrotiri.

Reflection on my exhibition Inner Movement

The past few weeks have flown by, and now my exhibition at atelier K84 has come to an end. With the help of Cees Beuzenkom, I was able to set up the space exactly as I had envisioned it. After a wonderful opening, with beautiful words from Maurice Laudy and Boris Hamilton, I was present every Friday and Saturday at the gallery space on Keizersgracht 84 in Amsterdam.

The people who came to see my exhibition made it a truly valuable experience for me. So many stories and such a diverse group of people. Some took the time to read everything, ask questions, and really understand my work. Others stood visibly moved in the middle of the space, where no words were needed. Some came by just to see me, bringing gifts or treats, while others were genuinely proud and happy for me.

Visitors came from the United States, Australia, Brazil, South Korea, and of course, the Netherlands, each with their own remarkable stories. They wanted to take photos with the work or with me, and later shared those moments. Others inspired me with their own art, sparking deep conversations about navigating the often complex world of art. I didn’t want to simply move on to the next thing without pausing to reflect on this. I wanted to fully appreciate how beautiful this experience has been.

A special highlight was the collaboration with Self Publisher United, particularly with Wies den Ouden. We spent a wonderful afternoon focused on photobooks. The partnership with Saskia de Vries and Sarah van Eijk was equally memorable, as they delivered a stunning performance inspired by my work, featuring live violin music, spoken word, and dance.

Now, it’s time to move on. This weekend, I’ll take everything off the walls to make room for the next exhibitor. Next weekend, I’m heading to Greece for a new adventure—a masterclass led by Raymond Meeks—and after that... I think I might need some rest.

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Lina’s head - available in a small edition of prints / framed

Published in Het Parool (Dutch Newspaper)

Het Parool published about my exhibition ‘Inner movement’ at atelier K84 in Amsterdam. The exhibition runs from July 12 till Sept. 7.

Read more about the exhibition …

By Peter van Brummelen (July 25th)

Update about my Exhibition 'Inner Movement': Two upcoming events!

August 10 | Photo Book Table with Wies den Ouden | Self Publishers United

I am thrilled to announce an event that I've been organizing in collaboration with Self Publishers United and atelier K84. If you have a passion for photography and dream of turning your work into a book, you won't want to miss this.

Event Details:

Join us on Saturday, August 10, from 15:00 to 17:00 at Atelier K84 (Keizersgracht 84, Amsterdam) for an inspiring afternoon. We have the pleasure of hosting a lecture by Wies den Ouden, who will share the fascinating story of how she co-founded Self Publishers United. Her love for unique photo books is contagious, and she'll be diving into the nitty-gritty of self-publishing your own book.

What makes this event truly special is the opportunity to engage directly with Wies during a Q&A session. It's not every day that you get to learn from someone with such a rich background in self-publishing, and I can't wait to hear her insights and advice.

As a bonus, we’ll have a variety of books from members of Self Publishers United available for you to browse and purchase. This is a great chance to see some beautiful work and maybe even take home a new treasure for your collection.

Admission is free, and we’ll be serving coffee and tea to keep things cozy and welcoming. While entry is free, I do ask that you register through the link to help us manage numbers.

If you’re in the area, the exhibition will be open from 12:00 on the same day, so you can make the most of your visit.

I’m genuinely excited about this event and believe it will be a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in photography and self-publishing. I look forward to seeing you there and sharing this inspiring afternoon together.

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August 30 | Live Music, Spoken Word, and Dance Performance | Sarah van Eijk & Saskia de Vries

I am incredibly excited to share an event that promises to be a truly unique experience, blending live music, spoken word, and dance performance. Violinist Sarah van Eijk and performance artist Saskia de Vries are collaborating on a live performance inspired by the themes and images of the photo exhibition 'Inner Movement'.

Event Details:

On Saturday, August 30, from 16:00 to 17:00 at Atelier K84 (Keizersgracht 84, Amsterdam), we will witness a captivating interplay of sound and movement that brings the exhibition's images to life in a powerful and unique way.

This is not just a performance; it is an experience you won’t want to miss.

When? Saturday, August 30, from 16:00 to 17:00

Where? Atelier K84, Keizersgracht 84, Amsterdam

Admission: Free, including coffee and tea

I believe this event will deeply resonate with anyone who appreciates the cross-pollination of different art forms and the profound emotions they can evoke. The exhibition will also be open for visits from 12:00 onwards on the same day, so feel free to explore it before the performance begins.

I look forward to sharing this unforgettable experience with you.

About Saskia de Vries

Saskia Johanna de Vries (1996) is afgestudeerd als professioneel danseres en beweegt mensen net zo lief met haar woorden. Ze bracht een eigen zine uit, publiceerde in bundels en treedt op met spoken word. Haar werk belichaamt dat wat zich eigenlijk niet in woorden laat vangen, maar gehuld in een vleugje eigenzinnigheid probeert ze het toch.

About Sarah van Eijk

Sarah is een veelzijdige zangeres en violiste die begon met viool spelen op 7-jarige leeftijd. Ze studeerde klassieke viool in Vicenza en Groningen, waar ze ook jazz ontdekte. Ze stapte over naar Jazz Vocals en studeerde in 2022 af aan het Conservatorium van Amsterdam. Sarah heeft in diverse interdisciplinaire projecten opgetreden en is nu actief in de band EUPNEA.

Solo Exhibition ‘Inner Movement’

Solo Exhibition at atelier K84 - July 12, 2024, through September 7, 2024 - Keizersgracht 84 - Amsterdam

I am very exited about sharing the news about my upcoming solo exhibition at Atelier K84 in Amsterdam!
You are invited to the opening (vernissage) on 12 July from 17:00 till 20:00, Keizersgracht 84 in Amsterdam.
Guest speaker: Photographer / Visual Artist Boris Hamilton from Brussels. (18:00)

'Inner Movement' is the overarching title of the work I've completed over the past year, which includes my graduation project 'Where the spirit meets the bone’, as well as new projects still in progress.

The focus of my practice lies in delving into aspects of the human psyche, and making emotions, for which we often lack words, visible. Movement is an essential element of my photography and is necessary to capture these emotions, but is not the goal itself.

Many of the images revolve around a deep-seated fear of disappearing, not being seen, or being consumed. Through this, I explore my own experiences with a panic disorder that has played a significant role in my life since 2017.

The stories that emerge are raw and personal, yet at the same time universal and recognisable. I invite the audience to recognise themselves in the work, where both the subject and the environment reflect the inner movement of our deepest emotions.

The new projects, some of which I will exhibit, are still in development and an extension of my earlier work.

IN SEARCH OF NIJINSKY (WORKING TITLE)

In "In Search of Nijinsky" (working title), I use the Kiev-born dancer Vaslav Nijinsky (born 1889) as a starting point. Fascinated by this man, I strive to embody his essence. He is considered the greatest dancer of the early 20th century, celebrated for his extraordinary skills and theprofound, intense way he in which he portrayed characters. He also stirred controversy and was daringly innovative in his movements, a true pioneer of contemporary dance. He danced to express himself.

What captivates me the most are his diaries, written in 1919 just before being diagnosed with schizophrenia and being admitted to a psychiatric hospital. The texts seem to have poured directly from his pen, his thoughts tumbling over each other. It’s as if what he used to express through dance was now captured in his writing.

I feel a deep connection with him, possibly because I, too, am always searching for ways to express myself and to be recognised. I seek to understand what was happening psychologically from the time of his admission until his death. His life after dance. Was movement still his language in his mind? I try to visualise his thoughts, his frustration, and fear—something I can very much relate to and strive to understand.

TREADING WATER

‘Treading Water’ (working title) is part of another series featured in the exhibition. It depicts the overwhelming wave of chaos and storm in the mind that one can experience during a panic attack. Through this piece, I explore my own experiences with panic disorder, which has played a significant role in my life since 2017.

This exhibition has been made possible and curated by: Atelier K84, Maurice Laudy, and Cees van Beuzekom.

Origini Edizioni in Livorno

When I was still studying at the photo academy and was looking for the publisher in the book ‘Geography of Abandonment’ by Raymond Meeks, I stumbled upon the name of a small publishing house in Italy, Origini Edizioni to be precise. I discovered that they had published a beautiful collection of handmade photo books, and I immediately became a big fan.

I started following them on Instagram, and the bookbinder Eugenia Koval regularly posted mesmerizing videos of her craft.
I hoped to one day get the chance to go there to see how they work and to show them my work.

And last week I returned from my trip to Livorno (Italy) after spending four long days in their atelier. Along with a group of a total of 12 people, under the guidance of Ilias Geordgiadis, Matilde Vittoria Laricchia, and Eugenia Koval, we worked during our Masterclass, on the most beautiful book dummies and were filled with knowledge, design, and techniques.

What an overwhelming experience that was. A Masterclass I won’t soon forget.

I was a bit hesitant at first because I was actually very tired before I left, but thanks to the wonderful group of people, I regained so much energy that it ended up doing me a lot of good. Full of new courage and inspiration, I am now brimming with ideas for my second book.

I forgot who took the photo. But we are looking at the beautiful work of Jennifer Baron (The Netherlands)

All the book dummies

Eugenia working her magic on a very old book I got from my father for my eighteenth birthday.

A Turkish fold made of some new work I shot just before I left to Italy. For me it is an experiment to see my work in a different form.

Review in a German Magazine: Dance for You Magazine

Dance for You Magazine is a German Magazine. I was very pleased and happy with the review of my book by Volkmar Draeger. Translation in English below.

Englisch translation

BOOK: "Where the Spirit Meets the Bone"

Monique Belier's Body Impressions

Monique Belier seeks those fleeting moments in the transition between movements when dancers are unaware of their actions. In one of her bass-colored commentaries on otherwise empty pages. "Where the Spirit Meets the Bone." The title, inspired by a poem from the late American poet Miller Williams, who passed away in 2015, encapsulates Belier's artistic essence—connecting mind and body, depicting the essence of human movement, and narrating stories through the language of the body.

A 2023 graduate of the Photo Academy in Amsterdam, Monique Belier reassures viewers that she, like a young farmer adapting to nature, captures the essence of the moment. Her photographs are not posed but rather capture fragmented moments, dissolving into unique body parts. Some shots evoke the spontaneity reminiscent of François Truffaut's "Wild Child," whether it's the flowing hair in the breeze or the tense stillness within the growing grass. The body, always integrated into its surroundings, appears against the backdrop of a woodland or a masonry. Hands speak, bodies bend and twist, legs stretch between the ground and a tree, and one foot connects with the earth while another points toward an object, telling a story of shattered narratives.

The portrayed subjects wear clothes, yet the focus is not on the attire but on the ritual's revelation. The photographer captures what is essential, uncovering the nuances revealed in "Tanzer am Strand" or the woman pressing against a peeling wall in "Elea." Belier's double-blessed photos, predominantly in black and white, offer a photographic panorama of discreet sensitivity. The book, featuring almost 120 illuminated pages and showcasing nearly 50 photos, spans a range of moods, from contemplation to agitation, encapsulating the diverse forms of expression that characterize Belier's work.

In this collection, Belier, connected to the third decade of the 21st century, brings forth the essence of the past two decades. The photographs, arranged with a keen sensibility, convey a variety of expressions. The book, a testament to Monique Belier's artistry, invites viewers to delve into the silent stories captured behind the lens.

Volkmar Draeger

My book at Foam!

I was very happy and proud to receive an email from Lotte Klösters, the manager of the Bookshop at Foam (Foto Museum Amsterdam) that they wanted to add my book ‘Where the spirit meets the bone’ to their collection of books. Something that was on my wishlist for a while.

Exhibition Galerie Calabro in Zurich

My first international exhibition is a fact. Very proud to exhibit my work at Galerie Calabro in Zurich. The Galerie just opened a new and beautiful location and they celebrate this with an openings exhibition.

The opening exhibition presents a fascinating variety of styles and techniques. The participating artists come from different countries and represent various stages of development in their artistic careers.

From 10-01-2024 till 24-01-2024

About Galerie Calabro

“Over the years of visiting countless exhibitions, galleries and openings all over the world, the idea of a gallery has emerged. A gallery where visitors feel comfortable and have no hesitation in walking in, where all artists are treated with respect and appreciation. A creative meeting point where art lovers and artists meet at equal terms.

As a very experienced and passionate art enthusiast, I have developed a unique instinct to guarantee the high artistic value of the works I select. Everyone has the chance to be exhibited at the Calabro Gallery. I only consider artistic quality and integrity.”

Paulina Calabrò
www.galeriecalabro.com

Overview Exhibion Galerie Calabro 2024
Photos by: Galerie Galabro

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Online Catalogue Galerie Calabro 2024

Monochrome Photography Awards 2024

Very happy to announce that my submission is rewarded with an Honorable Mention in the Professional Conceptual Category from the Monochrome Photography Awards (international Black & White Photography Contest.

Go to the: Winners Gallery

Robin Titchener's Best Photo Books of 2023 list

I couldn't be prouder to discover that my book made it to Robin Titchener's Best Photo Books of 2023 list. These lists are published annually on the Photobook Store UK website. I couldn't have asked for a better end to the year.

This is what he wrote about my book:

Where the Spirit Meets The Bone by Monique Belier, self-published

The second book on the list to take its inspiration from the world of dance is this stunning debut from Dutch photographer Monique Belier. A former dancer herself, this achingly elegant hand finished release captures the spirit and abandon of a performer's private world, as observed by an artist that clearly speaks their physical language fluently. Shades of Penn's studio work and Meeks' mastery of natural settings. A beautiful introduction to a fresh new talent.

If you want to read about all the incredible books on the list, please go to website by clicking the link.

Photo-book list 2023 by Robin Titchener

Dark Room Session by Isabel Hernandez

Isabel Hernandez from the Dark Room Session Newsletter, wrote about my work. you can click on the link (button) to go to the newsletter.

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With a text from Pascal Quignard - El origen de la danza

“Forget the rhythm. Try not to be aware of your horns. Give up the ground. Lose your muscles. Stop training. Please don’t follow the music. Don't bind yourselves to anything any more. Think of being born; that is the essential. Weigh yourself suddenly with all your weight on the ground like animals do in the forest. Lean on the humiliated pain of the ground. Then, surrender to the movement that arises. A cow's movement in the field raises its nose and moos. A black fly movement on the glass takes off, buzzes, leaves, crashes again, and suddenly traces an immense loop in the room’s air. A movement of pike opens its mouth in the silent and black water where it passes, where it bites, where it swallows. Become the neck of the bison that turns suddenly backwards on the wall of the well of Lascaux and that expires all its breath in the perpetual night of the origin of the men who are painting their origin on the dark side of the mountain. It becomes the movement that the old Japanese peasant woman tries to make when she gets up on the Tami, groaning because her knees are so crippled. Explore this movement as clumsily as possible, that is to say, with the same difficulty she feels. Only clumsiness is native. In the same way that Klee, right-handed, in his Bern atelier, forced himself to draw with his left hand, painfully put his injured knee on the ground, place in front of you both hands with palms down in the dust and pull, pull with your fingers, drag your backside, advance on all fours towards the light that is before your eyes and that is nothing more than the burning explosion of a star in the continuous night. Beauty is linked to the awkwardness of the origin. The first step taken by the child is a stumbling, faltering step, and it is the most beautiful step there can be in the sublunar world where the children of mortals survive as best they can.”

Pascal Quignard - The origin of dance

My work at: Audioteca Fotográfica / photographic audio library

My work in spoken word on Spotify.
I felt very honored when Isabel from Audioteca Fotográfica asked me if she could include my work into the Photographic Audio Library in Spain.

If you want to find out more about this initiative. Click to go their website: Website Audioteca Fotográfica.

They also have a really nice instagram account: @audiotecafotografica

Another Exciting Month Full of Art and Adventure

Discoveries in Bratislava: Off Bratislava Photofestival and Brot Bookstore

The past month has been a true rollercoaster of art, travel, and new encounters. My adventure began in Bratislava, where I participated in the Off Bratislava Photofestival. My book was selected for Off Libris and presented there, which was an honor! Bratislava turned out to be a beautiful city with a special focus on art and the LGBTQ community.

Opposite my hotel, I discovered the special bookstore Brot, which was interested in featuring my book in their collection. It's always nice to receive appreciation, and I was delighted that my work would be available in this store as well.

Brot, special bookshop, Bratislava

Paris Photo and Atelier Néerlandais

After a brief interlude at home, it was time for the next adventure: Paris Photo in the enchanting city of Paris. This extensive photo festival had been on my wishlist for a long time. However, Paris Photo was a bit disappointing as it was incredibly crowded, and I don't do well in large crowds and enclosed spaces, so we didn't stay for long. On the other hand, Polycopies was fantastic. Polycopies is part of Paris Photo and is a floating book fair featuring the latest and unique photo books.

My book was available for sale at the table of Setanta Bookshop from London.

During my stay in Paris, I also visited Atelier Néerlandais, of which I recently became a member. This initiative, located in the heart of Paris and supported by the Dutch and French embassies, provides an excellent space for creative exchange.

Setanta Bookshop at Polycopies, Paris

New Dance Project in Nancy: "In Search of Nijinski"

The journey continued to Nancy, where I met Lorenzo for a new project with the working title: "In Search of Nijinski." Lorenzo, a talented Italian dancer whom I had previously encountered at the Dutch Don't Dance Division in the Netherlands, was enthusiastic about participating in my project. In Nancy, I attended his performance at the Opera House of Nancy as a dancer with Le Ballet de Lorraine, which was a breathtaking experience.

After the performance, Lorenzo and I had two days to work on our new project. The results of the photo shoots are promising, but there is still a lot of work ahead in sorting and selecting the best images.

Opera House, Nancy, France

When everything comes together, Nancy, France

The month is not over yet! Coming up:

Since this month, I am the new curator of exhibitions at the Literary Café de Engelbewaarder in Amsterdam, along with Ringel Goslinga. Ringel will showcase his work starting from November 22, serving as a kind of trial and kick-off for our collaboration.

This art-filled month, marked by travel and new experiences, has only strengthened my passion for photography and art. I look forward to what the future holds and the further development of my artistic journey. Stay tuned for more adventures and creative discoveries!

@de_engelbewaarder-expo

X-Mas Shopping

If you're looking for beautiful unique Christmas gifts, take a look at my shop.

Book - Where the spirit meets the bone (Second edition, September 2023)

€38.00

Special Edition 'Where the spirit meets the bone'

€155.00

Published by safelight paper

I was very pleased that Safelight Paper wanted to publish my work. If you click on the link, you can read the whole article.

Click here to go to the whole article.

About safelight paper

Safelight Paper is a platform for Slow photography. Based in Berlin, the magazine aims to lead photography back to its mindful roots and inspire artists to explore new perspectives through more personal, substantial and meaningful projects, placing the story at the center.

Safelight Paper is creating a space for new talent exploring relevant issues, both on a personal and collective level, including all type of photography.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Nicolas Blanchadell @nicolasblanchadell

A September to Remember: My Journey in the World of Photography

As the leaves began to change and the air turned crisp, September marked the beginning of a new chapter in my photography journey. It was a month filled with excitement, inspiration, and opportunities that allowed me to connect with fellow photographers and enthusiasts.

The Grand Opening at De Engelbewaarder

I began September with the opening of my first solo exhibition and the presentation of the second edition of my book at ‘De Engelbewaarder’ in Amsterdam. It was an unforgettable celebration attended by dear friends, family, and industry professionals. Ringel Goslinga's (photographer and teacher) inspiring speech, where he shared thoughtful insights about my work, left me deeply grateful. His words added depth to the evening, emphasizing the power of visual storytelling.

Exhibition “Where the spirit meets the bone’ from: 13 september till 12 november 2023

Haute: Celebrating Fresh Eyes and New Talent

One of the highlights of my September was my visit to Haute, where I had the pleasure of picking up my edition from Gup (Fresh Eyes), a platform dedicated to showcasing fresh talent in the world of photography. Being published among a select group of photographers from different corners of the globe was a true honor. It was not only a recognition of my work but also an opportunity to connect with a diverse community of photographers who share a passion for visual storytelling.

At Haute Photography 2023 in Amsterdam

A publication in Fresh Eyes New Talent powered by GUP

Unseen: A Photographic Wonderland

Another remarkable event in September was my participation in the Unseen photo festival, an event that brought together photographers, collectors, and enthusiasts in a celebration of the visual arts. I was there with 'Self Publishers United,' a collective of independent photographers and publishers. Together, we showcased our books and creations to a captivated audience.

The Unseen festival was a visual wonderland, featuring a myriad of photography art, installations, and exhibitions. It was a place where creativity knew no bounds, and I was deeply inspired by the innovative and thought-provoking work on display. From experimental photography techniques to powerful narratives, Unseen was a testament to the ever-evolving world of photography.

Unseen Book market 2023 in Amsterdam

September: The Opening Month of the Cultural Year

September is not just any month; it's the opening month of the cultural year. It's a time when art and creativity take center stage, and I was fortunate to be a part of it. One of my memorable moments during this cultural celebration was my visit to Huis Marseille, where I brought special editions of my book for the bookstore.

Huis Marseille, a renowned photography museum in Amsterdam, is a haven for photography enthusiasts. Sharing my work in this esteemed institution alongside other exceptional photographers was a humbling experience.

Where the spirit meets the bone at Huis Marseille in Amsterdam

September was a month of discovery, connection, and celebration in the world of photography. From my first solo exhibition with the second edition of my book, to Haute and Unseen, and to Huis Marseille, I had the privilege of showcasing my work, meeting fellow artists, and immersing myself in the vibrant and ever-evolving world of visual art.

As the cultural year continues to unfold, I am excited to see where my photography journey will take me next. September has set the stage for a year filled with new adventures, creative collaborations, and an unwavering passion for the art of photography.