Michael Rhebergen is a multi-awarded, independent documentary photographer and visual researcher from The Netherlands, whose work is focussing on memory, identity and how we relate to the landscape.
Trained as a social manager with a specialization in cultural anthropology he is a self-taught photographer, who predominantly works on long-term personal projects. He has traveled to more than thirty different countries in parts of Asia, Africa, Latin America and Europe.
His work has been exhibited internationally and published by leading international media such as National Geographic, The Washington Post, De Groene Amsterdammer, De Volkskrant, The Telegraph, Courrier International, NRC and De Correspondent, among others.
One of Michael’s latest projects, ‘THE NEW COAST’, has been nominated for the ANI-PixTrakk Award in France. He has been nominated for the Joop Swart Masterclass organized by World Press Photo and the 6×6 Global Talent Program – Europe.
His project ‘The Panic of Memories’ was developed into a one-hour theatre piece together with Rwandan choreographer and musician Mugisha Frank.
Furthermore he has published his first two monographs in 2022, ‘The Last Fishermen’ and ‘THE NEW COAST’.
The paradox of our time is that our short-term thinking of the Western consumption society has an influence on the long term. For the first time in history men has an influence on the al-encompassing climate. Which brings us at a social and ecological crossroad, the battle between short-term thinking and a sustainable future. Continue reading »
With this project Michael investigates what impact Rwanda's recent history has on the younger generation. Together with Rwandese choreographer Mugisha Frank he developed the theaterplay 'ROYALTY meets The Panic of Memories'. For more info Continue reading »
According to scientific research it is not the question if, but when coastal regions in the world will loose land as a result of climate change. What are the consequences for Michael's home country, The Netherlands? Continue reading »
For generations the Dutch rivers held so much fish, hundreds of fishermen worked on these waters. Today only a father and son are active on their boat. Continue reading »
In the old World Dennis would throw knives at his beloved girlfriend in the weekend. He would juggle with burning sticks, would let his camels dance. Continue reading »
This project investigates the relationship between the impact of climate change and child marriage in Bangladesh. In the south of Bangladesh river erosion and sea level rising give rise to daily threaths, causing deepening poverty placing young girls in a vulnerable position. Continue reading »
If memory and pain would have a physical shape and size in Guatemala it would be a cardboard box with black marker writing on it. Continue reading »
Albert Visscher, a man in his fifties, made a radical decision. He couldn’t pay his rent anymore and so he bought an old super market truck to live in. Continue reading »
“I still don’t have any idea what I was supposed to do in India”, tells Rina in her broken English. “The only thing I knew was that I was promised work and money.” Continue reading »
