003 ☼ Eelco Wortman - Life On Hold
The resilience and homesickness of Ukrainian refugees in the Netherlands
Process Projected
New Exhibition:
Life On Hold
Eelco Wortman
February 20 - March 4 (NOW EXTENDED TO March 11)
Dear friends,
We are back with the third installment of the new Process Projected exhibition series, featuring the moving narrative work of Eelco Wortman.
I’ve been closely following Eelco’s artistic evolution for years, witnessing his transition from a street photographer to a remarkable photo documentarian with a distinct artistic touch.
Over the past two years, Eelco's lens has been focused on the daily lives of Ukrainian families who found themselves uprooted due to the illegal Russian invasion and subsequent war, settling in the Netherlands. His approach is marked by kindness and respect, capturing the resilience of these families as they navigate the challenges of relocation.
Eelco achieves something remarkable in his work. He captures the strength of war refugees, showcasing their resilience, determination, and character even in the face of life's most challenging moments. Simultaneously, he skillfully balances this strength with moments of tenderness, innocence, and the adaptability of childhood.
The result is a kaleidoscopic portrayal of the Ukrainian perspective—a narrative of gratitude for safety in a new country, intertwined with a profound pride and a heartfelt commitment to eventually return to their homeland.
Let me know if you pop by the gallery, I might be there or nearby.
Wesley Verhoeve, curator
Process Projected at What Is Happening Here Gallery
Reguliersdwarsstraat 73, Amsterdam
Opening Times: Tuesdays through Saturdays, noon until 6pm
About The Work
"Life On Hold" is a poignant photographic project by Eelco Wortman that sheds light on the lives of Ukrainian refugees in the Netherlands, challenging common misconceptions. Inspired by his friendship with a Ukrainian family, Wortman captures the stories of over 25 families who fled the war in Ukraine. Contrary to the stereotype of seeking a comfortable European life, these refugees long to return home, showcasing their pride in their country and culture. The project, born out of a desire to share their perspective, emphasizes the human stories behind the statistics.
About The Artist
Eelco Wortman, a self-taught freelance documentary and portrait photographer from the Netherlands, brings a unique perspective to his work influenced by traditional street and film photography. Focusing on light, color, shape, and contrast, Wortman's photography delves into the human condition, capturing daily situations often overlooked.
With a signature blend of various styles, he has garnered attention from leading brands and earned recognition in the world of Dutch photography, including the 'SO Public Choice Award' for two consecutive years. Wortman's passion for storytelling is evident in both his commercial and personal projects, showcasing his commitment to creating authentic and emotive narratives through the lens.
For more, visit EelcoWortman.com and follow along at @eelcowortman.
Upcoming Exhibition
Each installment of Process Projected is shown for two weeks.
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About The Curator
Wesley Verhoeve is an Amsterdam-based photographer and curator.
His photography has been featured in publications such as the New York Times, National Geographic, the Washington Post, Wired, and many other publications.
As a curator, Wesley was responsible for 96 exhibits at the International Center of Photography in New York City, highlighting the works of over three hundred photographers from across fifty countries. Previous to ICP, Wesley served as the first curator-at-large for WeTransfer, curating works by over six hundred visual creatives.
Wesley Verhoeve also publishes Process, a weekly newsletter dedicated to photography and discovering one's voice. It was the first photography newsletter published on the Substack platform and has more than 10,000 subscribers.