Portrait taken by Desmond Koppen

Ilse Natasja (1992, she/her) is a Dutch visual artist working with lens-based media. In 2023 she received her BA with honors from the Dutch Academy for Applied Photography. Currently Ilse is participating in FOTODOK’s talent program, called Lighthouse. Additionally, she is part of Studio 307, a collective of photographers being mentored by Milan Gies and Sarah Mei Herman.

Artist statement

My work is a heartfelt exploration of womanhood, capturing the nuances of apparent contradictions, such as strength and vulnerability, intimacy and distance, desire and doubt. Through symbolic and poetic art, I inspire introspection and empathy. Within my artistic practice I like to combine various techniques, blending both analog and digital methods to craft emotionally rich narratives. My intuitive approach establishes genuine connections with my subjects, resulting in authentic and moving visuals.

Initially, my photography serves as a personal quest regarding intimate feelings, thoughts and dreams, which is why my images can in a certain sense be considered as self-portraits. On the other hand, by using socially relevant and universal themes the viewer is also invited to reflect upon their own experiences.