Vincent Goes North – Expo Opening in Amsterdam Noord

On Thursday, July 3, the Vincent Goes North exhibition opened at Waterlandplein in Amsterdam Noord.

Spread across the field, large photographic panels show deeply personal and visual stories created by a group of young people.

The exhibition is the result of a twelve week creative program in which participants developed their own photo series. Inspired by their personal experiences and by the life and work of Vincent van Gogh.

The final works explore themes like identity, resilience, growth and perspective.

A moment of celebration

The exhibition was officially opened on July 3 by the Chair of Amsterdam Noord, together with the participants, their families, friends and partners. Co-founder Serginho Stekkel shared a few words and several participants read their poems and personal texts to bring extra depth to their work.

The journey behind the work

The exhibition marks the end of a creative process. Over twelve weeks, participants came together weekly to reflect, learn and create. The group was guided by professionals throughout the program.

The journey started with storytelling: in a workshop with Soumaya Bazi, participants explored how to turn personal experiences into powerful narratives.

In a session with scenographer Eddy van der Laan, they learned how space and setting affect visual storytelling.

Finally, in a series of workshops with photographer Wessel de Groot, they developed skills in light, composition and visual thinking, helping them telling their story through image.

The exhibition at Waterlandplein showcases these stories: raw, sensitive, personal and powerful.

By placing the exhibition in public space, we brought Van Gogh to Amsterdam Noord. On a central field, these stories now meet passers-by, neighbors and visitors. Connecting the museum to the people of the neighborhood.

It's also a reminder of what happens when young people are given the space to express themselves.

During the opening, the makers shared their ideas, the process and the meaning behind their work. The conversations that followed showed how imagery can connect and how valuable it is to give young people a stage for their perspective.

Want to join the next edition of Vincent Goes North?

Applications for the fall edition are now open. Sign up via this link.