Originating in the sixteenth century, the camera obscura functioned as both an optical device and a conceptual bridge between observation and representation, shaping the development of photographic and moving-image technologies. Today, this lineage extends into CCTV systems, whose pervasive presence in urban space raises persistent questions of visibility, privacy and control.

Camera Obscuras, a visual art project by Thijs Koelink, reflects on this condition of constant observation. Through abstract photographs of architectural forms and surveillance devices, the work navigates the fragile boundary between public space and private experience. Shot in Utrecht with a analog camera on a single roll of 35mm film. 

Camera Obscuras unfolds as both a zine and an exhibition. The 32-page zine is published by Stickit, a platform dedicated to supporting emerging street artists through limited-edition monographs. The monochrome zines are signed-off by handwritten graphic interventions, creating a dialogue between the two media. The publication is released in an edition of 100 copies. The accompanying exhibition, hosted by Kunstgras in ZIMIHC Wittevrouwen, presents the launch of the zines, a selection of photographic prints and a video projection. The project launches on Friday, March 20th.

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Babilonia is a series of street photography from Cuzco and Lima, Peru. Although these images were shot more than 20 years ago, the work seems timeless and even more relevant nowadays. A body of work that’s high in contrast, both thematic and technical. The scenes show the daily hustle on Peruvian streets, like money exchangers, vendors, uniforms, musicians and playful kids. Uncut frames, honest moments and film-stills, all frozen in time.

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A fresh section to my portfolio is called Scenery, since I’ve never featured my nature photography here. These mystical sceneries from Iceland, always leave me mesmerising. This series was made on our trip in 2022, where we’ve covered the south of Iceland. Aiming for mysterious scenes of fog, steam, mist, volcanic rocks and ice. I’ve tried to have an abstract approach to the sites, looking for forms and contrasts. 

ICELAND SERIES

Salarymen from Osaka often greet each other with Mokari Makka? A phrase which roughly translates to ‘Did you make any money?’ Join Dutch Photographer Thijs Koelink on a chronological, yet fictive journey through a Japanese metropolis.

The book ‘Mokari Makka?’ is published in Utrecht. You read this book like a Manga, starting from the back, then chronologically forward. To further align with Japanese Manga books, ‘Mokari Makka?’ is printed on off-white Roman paper.

PHOTOBOOK MOKARI MAKKA

I’ve restocked a selection of photo prints. Available in our STUDIO AYQIDO webshop. High quality prints on Japanese Washi Torinoko paper with hand-torn edges to show the fibers. Some prints are also available on high quality Luster paper. 
Carefully framed in black aluminium, including a custom passe-partout. All signed and limited editions. The prints come with a certificate of authenticity. 

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Through the experimental use of a second hand panoramic camera, using a double exposure technique with monochrome film. Black and white photographs with architectural constructed compositions. resulting in a great selection of graphic panoramic images reflecting the structures of the northern Antwerp docks. This resulted in a project and various exhibitions with extra-large photo prints (mounted on aluminium)

STRUCTURES SERIES