Since 2017, the Meervaart Studio Foto Lab has provided a platform for young visual artists (ages 15-26) in Amsterdam. What began as an initiative by Foam (Foam Forward), has evolved into a sustainable collaboration between Meervaart and Foam, centered on talent development, imagination, and urban connection. The 15th exhibition 'Public Intimacy' is on view starting today at No Man's Art Gallery KIOSK. 

The Foto Lab offers young visual artists from Amsterdam the space to develop their own visual language. By working from personal experiences and social themes, a diverse and layered image of the city emerges — often outside the beaten path of the established art world. 

Over the past 9 years, this has resulted in fourteen exhibitions, guided by coaches and museum educators from Foam, including Khalid Amakran, Coco Olakunle, Les Adu, and Fidelio Ferrier. Their guidance helps participants not only grow technically, but also find their own voice. 

With the fifteenth edition, 'Public Intimacy', the Meervaart Studio Foto Lab continues this trajectory. 'Public Intimacy', again in collaboration with Foam and this time with photographer Hanane El Ouardani, presents a new generation of makers and their personal stories. 

The participating photographers — Lieke van Dam, Lucette Vink, Khansae Bourjila, Vera Silsbury, Willemijn van der Waal, Yacelyn Anthonio, Lauren Sterke, Paandyar Pourseyf, Sabien Kuilman, Manu Maste, Leo van der Oost and Dewi Veldhuizen — showcase work created through reflection, experimentation, and dialogue.  The photographers examine their relationships with one another, their bodies and their memories, and question how and to what extent we make ourselves visible — or keep ourselves hidden. 

With the Foto Lab, Meervaart Studio affirms her role as an incubator for young talent and as a connecting force within the city. Through collaborations with partners such as the Dutch Film Academy, ISH Academy, Melkweg, and Foam, an ecosystem is created in which young makers can develop and advance into the professional field. 

In doing so, Meervaart emphasizes the importance of continued investments in young talent and a cultural sector that reflects Amsterdam's diversity. 

Practical Information
Exhibition: 'Public Intimacy' (Meervaart Studio Foto Lab x Foam Forward)
Dates: March 26 – April 2, 2026
Location: No Man's Art Gallery KIOSK, Willem de Zwijgerlaan 327 Amsterdam
More information: www.meervaart.nl/fotolab