Geschiedenis van NonFiction Photo

History

The history of NonFiction Photo starts in Groningen. That is where NonFiction Photo provides a stage for art with a mission and wants to organize this in a way that benefits everyone. At least, that’s what we’ve been saying since 2018, when we chose our current name to make way for ambitions regarding exhibitions and talent. But the story started much earlier…

History of the founding

The foundation was founded in 2003 by a number of students from the University of Groningen. During a party, a group of political science students – or something related – were talking about discussing the conveyance of social stories from around the world. Current issues are often not sexy and their importance is difficult to convey to a wide audience. The world famous World Press Photo exhibition was discussed: an exhibition that makes a big impression and passes on knowledge without words. ‘One thing led to another, and the rest is history’.

Present situation

The foundation was totally renewed during the 15th anniversary in 2018. With new activities and an acquired ANBI status in 2019 the ‘new’ organisation was born: NonFiction Photo. With the new director, Andrea Hooymans the foundation focusses on art, entrepreneurship, talent and education. Thus, a Talent Track was launched for young culture makers exhibitions are produced yearly.

In 2020, the activities of the foundation have expanded to such an extent that there is a real photo manifestation with all the trimmings. This is how the NonFiction Photo Festival was born: no-nonsense, curious, critical, topical and idealistic.

Over the years, the World Press Photo Exhibition alone has drawn over 100.000 visitors to Groningen. With a big group of about 50 to 70 volunteers , the foundation organizes the NonFiction Photo Festival in such a way that everyone benefits. Following the manifesto NonFiction Photo is realizing a festival in 2020 with exhibitions and projects in the field of education and talent.

Want to know more about our team? Read on in about us.