Lifestyle
Opening of the photo exhibition 'Through our eyes' in Heemstede town hall
On Monday, January 19, Alderman Sam Meerhoff will open the photo exhibition "Through Our Eyes" at Heemstede Town Hall. This exhibition is the result of a unique collaboration between young refugees living at the asylum reception center in Heemstede and photographer Anke van der Meer.
The participants in this project are 13 and 14-year-olds who fled to the Netherlands without their parents. They receive weekly photography lessons and learn how to capture what they see, feel, and experience with a camera. The exhibition shows how they experience their new surroundings in Heemstede and the surrounding area. Visitors can see through their eyes, so to speak.
Alderman Sam Meerhoff: “The photos show how the young people are settling into Heemstede. You see their journey to school, their language and cycling lessons, and a trip to 't Wed. Despite their differences, the photos also remind me of my childhood. You see their friendship, the fun they have together, their sense of wonder. It's a wonderful, moving report. I hope everyone comes to see it.”
Exhibition Design:
The exhibition is located in the hallway of the public hall in the town hall. Door panels adorn both walls with silhouettes drawn by the young people themselves, sometimes accompanied by words in their native language. These silhouettes form a symbolic presence.
Behind the silhouettes runs a flowing collection of small photographic prints. They depict themes such as food, school, and living, and together they form their personal observations. Above them hang several larger, framed black and white portraits. The portraits depict the young people in a way that allows them to remain anonymous, for example, by covering their faces.
Photographer Anke van der Meer: “It's very special to go out with the young people and take photos. It often leads to wonderful encounters with other residents. What also touches me is that the young people tell me that the project makes them proud and helps them gain more self-confidence.”
Opening
of the photo exhibition by Alderman Meerhoff: January 19, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Location: Public Hall, Heemstede Town Hall, Raadhuisplein 1, Heemstede.
The exhibition will be on view until the end of February 2026. Everyone is welcome to attend the opening of the photo exhibition.
