Rineke Dijkstra – I See You

• Anna, The Gymschool, 2014
  © Rineke Dijsktra
• Eva, The Gymschool, 2014
  © Rineke Dijsktra
• Lera, The Gymschool, 2014
  © Rineke Dijsktra
• Marianna (The Fairy Doll), 2014
  © Rineke Dijkstra

Through to October 1, 2023, La Maison Européenne de la Photographie (MEP) in Paris dedicates an entire floor to the work of Rineke Dijkstra: at the center of the presentation are four of the Dutch artist’s most important video installations – marking the first time they are displayed in a Parisian venue. Considered to be one of the most prolific artists of her generation, Dijkstra is celebrated both for her photography and video projects, many of which address the topics of identity, intimacy and coming of age.

As part of a curatorial approach focusing on youth, adolescence, and the challenges they entail, the MEP presents Dijkstra’s video installations ‘Ruth Drawing Picasso’ (2009), ‘I See a Woman Crying’ (2009), ‘Marianna (The Fairy Doll)’ (2014) and ‘The Gymschool’  (2014), complemented by a selection of the artist’s photographs.

Rineke Dijkstra’s oeuvre, which spans three decades to date, is characterised by precise observations and a deep sensitivity towards those she portrays. Her work seeks to question the way in which we see ourselves, how we present ourselves to the world, and how we deal with things that are beyond our control. Her portraits tell of the passing of time, social codes and life experiences. These issues, which are particularly prominent during adolescence, form the central core of the exhibited works.