Character is not a word

A thought-provoking exhibition
Although their artistic approaches differ, both artists share a fascination with character as something that goes beyond words. In ‘Character is not a word’, the works of Shirin Hejazi and Jenneke van der Weijden enter into a dialogue with one another. From their own perspectives, they explore how character becomes visible in images, imagination and human experience. The exhibition invites visitors to discover the individuality hidden within people, animals, objects and landscapes, and how meaning arises from what we see, feel and interpret. For Shirin Hejazi, character is not a fixed concept, but something that becomes visible in images, moments and human choices.

“Character is not a word. It can be an image, a frozen moment or thousands of images that together form a story. Character is shaped by our choices and actions. In this exhibition, many of these images and characters have been translated into works of art. Perhaps your character can be found somewhere in the exhibition.” In her work, Hejazi explores the relationship between people, nature and society. Her images reflect connectedness, responsibility and the influence we exert on our environment.

Jenneke van der Weijden approaches character as an active force that manifests itself in everything around us. “Character is not a passive word but an action. When I meet someone or see them in passing, I imagine their individuality. Trees, animals and staircases also have character for me. The question for the viewer is: what individuality, what story fits with what is on display?” Van der Weijden creates worlds in which reality and imagination merge. Her work leaves room for interpretation and invites visitors to discover their own stories.

The exhibition will be officially opened on Saturday 18 July from 1.00 pm to 6.00 pm. The welcome address will take place at 3.00 pm. Visitors are warmly invited to meet the artists and view the exhibition.