Nanda
(b. 1988)
Hagenaars
Like a river
Life, like a river, flows with its own rhythm, carrying us on a journey filled with both tranquility and turbulence. In moments of calm, we are embraced by the gentle currents, as if floating effortlessly through the passage of time.
However, calm waters can transform into turbulent torrents, unsettling our footing and leaving us questioning our purpose. As we navigate through the wild currents, it is easy to lose sight of our purpose.
Yet, if we were to take a step back and observe from a different perspective, a new truth would emerge. From a higher point of view, we would witness the river’s grand design—the intricate twists and turns that sculpt its course. We learn that life’s true beauty lies not in the absence of obstacles but in our ability to overcome them.
Duality
“Her camera allowed her to see things differently, to change perspectives — both from behind the lens and in her daily life. She has turned ‘seeing differently’ into a form of art, creating portraits that are both interesting in their compositions and in the emotional impact they have.” – Mick Agence
Reinvention
You made me what I am – Nobody can make anything out of anybody if it is not in the person already. I only brought you out. I turned you inside out. – Anaïs Nin
Touch of love
” At the touch of love, everybody becomes a poet. “
Perspective
“Where we see faces, Nanda sees elements of a final piece. Where we see angles, Nanda sees depth. At first, her compositions might not strike you as anything out of the ordinary, but once she’s tweaked and refined things, almost surreal compositions emerge.
Perspective, one of her most well-known duo portraits, does just that. It is unconventional, hovering between mystery and urgency, and feels as if it could be pulled from the work of Dalí, one of her greatest inspirations.” – Mick Agence
Intertwined
“How we perceive the world is a direct reflection of who we are. Instead of seeing the world as it objectively exists, we view it through the lens of our own being. In essence, our individuality colors our interpretation of reality. Our personal perspectives, beliefs, and life experiences shape the way we understand and engage with the world. Thus, our perception is inseparable from our own identity.” – Nanda
Alignment
In magic – and life – there is only the present moment, the now. Photography has transformed me. I became the silent observer, connecting me to the present moment. In alignment with above, as below.
Frame of mind
“Nanda pours a piece of herself into her work, forging connections with people and the wisdom of life. It’s like a game – an exciting journey of discovery. Through this connection, her photography becomes a way to explore her own identity and communicate with the world around her, painting a vivid picture of emotions and experiences.”
Pause
“How we perceive the world is a direct reflection of who we are. Instead of seeing the world as it objectively exists, we view it through the lens of our own being”
Grace
“I dance a little,
With holy pauses and silence.
All of it is myself,
Trusting unknown guidance.
I dance a little,
This day is never returned.
I want a hundred percent,
Future and past, gently burned.”
– Nanda
Tijmen
Portrait of Tijmen, whom I met at Mart’s funeral. Again drinking coffee (at Mart’s table) and a good conversation about life and our connection with our beloved friend. What is important in life, when life is something so small and vulnerable? Thanks Tijmen for coming by and the talk, happy that we’ve met! Any suggestions on how to name this series? “At Marts table” or maybe “Enjoy life” (what Mart told us to do!)
Reflections
“We are all visitors to this time, this place. We are just passing through. Our purpose here is to observe, to learn, to grow, to love…and then we return home.” –
A.B. Shepherd
Elevation
“She believes in using photography as a way to grow and discover herself. “It’s not always easy to see things differently, but I push myself to do it,” she says. This philosophy shows up in her art. She doesn’t just see water; she sees its reflection too. This way of seeing extends to everything she captures.
She plays with light and shadow, creating a dance that’s both rhythmic and melancholic. Through her work, she hopes to inspire others to share their emotions through art. She’s a firm believer that everyone has an inner artist who can create and heal by looking at the world, or themselves, with fresh eyes.”
Duality
“The art of reinvention lies in looking at the known with new eyes, discovering new perspectives within the ordinary.”
Pause
“The goal is to share who we are and how we see the world.”
Point of view
“This is the real secret of life — to be completely engaged with what you are doing in the here and now. And instead of calling it work, realize it is play.” – Alan watts
Walk the walk
“I would say walking is one of the easiest ways to get back in alignment. Walking in nature, observing and absorbing, is a form of meditation. When fully present with no distractions other than nature itself, ideas will flow into the mind.”
Tzvika
Summer 2021. We met at a restaurant where Tzvika worked in Amsterdam. I asked him to come to my studio and so he did. We talked, We took some pictures. It was a good day. (Picture got a nomination for the Dutch National Portrait prize by Rabobank in 2022.)
Hands
“The language of the hands intrigues me. The structure of the skin are like a little rivers, finding it’s path through nature. Give me your hands and I will make your portrait.”
Being Understood
“Being understood is a privilige. It’s a deeper understanding on how you are heard, seen and understood. It’s a form of deep connection. “
River of sky
