Working as a street-photographer, in the style of the famous Dutch photographer Ed van der Elsken. Van de Griendt manages to get close-up to his subject, recording the current youth generation openly and directly. In their search for identity, alone and together, open, sometimes closed, Van de Griendt's portraits give a warm and promising overview of today's youth, both here in The Netherlands and elsewhere.
A quest for identity
Van de Griendt reveals through powerful images the vulnerability and candour of young people in the context of their own social circle. He registers them -capturing their attitude, gestures and expressions - with all the acuity of adocumentary photographer. Although his photos seem to be snapshots, Van de Griendt leaves little to chance. He observes, and waits patiently for, in his eyes, the perfect image that reveals a subtle dynamic or tension. One photograph, of Harry (13), before an "emo" concert in London, illustrates Van de Griendt's method. He portrays Harry - with charcoal around his eyes, lipstick, and a fringe down to his eyebrows - in public amongst other emos. Emos distinguish themselves through alternative fashion and an emotional streak. As soon as the absent expression of this vulnerable-looking boy falls within his field, Van de Griendt takes his shot. He catches those moments when young people are chiefly occupied with themselves and each other. When photographing, Van de Griendt manages quickly to win his subjects' trust, anapproach which produces pure, direct images. Regarding his method, he says: "I try very hard to involve myself with them, as though I'm one of them."
Publication
Van de Griendt has compiled anexclusive, limited-edition book of around 50 of the photos on display,specifically for the Kunsthal exhibition.
About your visit
Frequently Asked Questions
Skip listThe Kunsthal is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 17:00 hrs. The Kunsthal Café opens half an hour earlier, so you can visit from 9:30 hrs until half an hour after closing time. Check the current opening hours.
Yes, you need to book a ticket with a start time in advance. This also applies if you have a Museum card, Rotterdam pass, or VriendenLoterij VIP Card. This way, you are guaranteed admission and we can ensure that your visit is as pleasant as possible. Book your start time.
Yes, with an online ticket, you can visit all the exhibitions that are on display on the date of your visit. You can also stay as long as you like. You are welcome at the Kunsthal from your designated start time until closing time. Book your start time.
In de Kunsthal Rotterdam zijn altijd meerdere wisselende en contrastrijke tentoonstellingen tegelijk te zien. Een volledig overzicht van alle actuele tentoonstellingen vind je op de tentoonstellingspagina.