Overview
The Life Stories – Educational Workshop was a collaborative initiative by Pride Photo and BredaPhoto, designed to support emerging photographers in the Netherlands. The program invited students from the Royal Academy of Art (KABK) and St. Joost School of Art & Design to collaborate with LGBTQIA+ community members in Breda, creating portrait-based photographic projects that explore queer identity, marginalisation, resilience, and joy.
This educational workshop emphasized ethical storytelling, co-creation, and inclusive practices, helping early-career photographers develop professional skills while engaging meaningfully with local communities.
Duration: Summer 2025
Format: Two in-person workshops and two online mentoring sessions
Workshop 1 – Early August 2025
- Focused on portrait photography and ethical interviewing
- Paired students with LGBTQIA+ participants to co-create photographic works
Workshop 2 – Early September 2025
- Explored archival storytelling, visual experimentation, collage, and mixed media
- Guided students to prepare their final works for exhibition
Support and Mentorship:
- Curatorial guidance from experienced tutors and curators
- Travel and meals covered
- Feedback sessions to refine artistic and storytelling approaches
Exhibition Opportunity:
Completed works were included in the Life Stories public exhibition, displayed alongside established photographers, giving emerging artists professional exposure in a high-profile cultural context.
Tutors and Curator
Zindzi Zwietering – Director of Pride Photo
Multidisciplinary artist exploring queerness, womanhood, and climate crisis through photography, silkscreen, and mixed media. Exhibited at Stedelijk Museum, Foam, and Art Rotterdam.
Francesco Giordano (Mit Euren Spuren Collective)
Queer photographer and curator based in Munich, focusing on LGBTQIA+ identity and migration. Work exhibited internationally, including Pinakothek der Moderne and Belfast Photo Festival.
Astrid Hulsmann – Curator at BredaPhoto
Supports emerging photographers in understanding curatorial practices, visibility, and ethical storytelling in exhibitions.
Samira Damato – Artistic Director of Pride Photo
Filmmaker, artist, and curator with experience at World Press Photo Foundation, NOOR Images, and MAXXI Museum. Advocates for inclusive photographic education and queer storytelling.
Learning Outcomes & Impact
The Life Stories – Educational Workshop enabled participants to:
- Develop inclusive and ethical photography skills
- Collaborate with LGBTQIA+ communities to produce authentic, respectful narratives
- Explore portraiture, archival storytelling, collage, and mixed media techniques
- Gain professional visibility through exhibitions alongside established photographers
This program fostered creative growth, ethical practice, and meaningful community engagement for emerging artists in the Netherlands.