Jimmy Nelson - Between the Sea and the Sky

Jimmy Nelson's exhibition “Between the Sea and the Sky” offers a comprehensive collection of 65 photographic works and two videos, showcasing 20 Dutch communities in traditional dress. These images were taken in picturesque fishing villages, vast polder landscapes and historic fortified towns. In doing so, Nelson celebrates the beauty, cultural richness and authenticity of humanity.

Jimmy Nelson, internationally known for his books “Before They Pass Away” and “Homage to Humanity,” pays personal tribute to age-old traditions with this series. His work combines the timeless elegance of Dutch naturalism with the art of contemporary portrait photography. For the individual and group portraits, he uses an analog large format camera, resulting in picturesque, romantic images full of exquisite detail, reminiscent of the famous Dutch masters.

Highlighting the intrinsic beauty of human diversity and shared heritage, the exhibition reinforces a deep sense of global connectedness, a recurring theme in Nelson's work. Visitors are invited to a visual dialogue and reflection on the importance of cultural preservation and unity. In addition to the exhibition, a fringe program of artist talks and school activities adds to the experience.

Born in Sevenoaks, England, Nelson lived in Africa, Asia and the Middle East during his youth. Since 1993, he has lived in Amsterdam, where the Jimmy Nelson Studio & Gallery is located. He has been photographing for forty years and has exhibited in leading museums and galleries worldwide. His autonomous work has also been presented at prestigious art and photography fairs such as PAN Amsterdam, Photo London, Paris Photo and TEFAF Maastricht.