Erwin Olaf – Freedom

The Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam pays tribute to Erwin Olaf, a major Dutch photographer who passed away in 2023, with a large retrospective entitled Erwin Olaf – Freedom. As the first posthumous exhibition to trace his entire body of work, it follows a thematic and chronological approach. The exhibition delves into his committed visual universe through iconic series (such as Grief, Berlin…), rare works, personal archives, and an unfinished video – a moving testament to his legacy. Each series celebrates the freedom to be oneself, addressing themes such as identity, gender, sexuality, and equality, as a response to intolerance.

A 384-page publication, released by Hannibal Books, accompanies the exhibition, featuring contributions from numerous experts, including testimonies by Rein Wolfs (Director of the museum), Shirley den Hartog (collaborator and director of Studio Erwin Olaf), and Charl Landvreugd (curator of the exhibition).

At Paris Photo, from November 13 to 16, the Rabouan Moussion gallery will present a solo show dedicated to Erwin Olaf, showcasing mostly previously unseen works.