The portrayed faces of photographer Menno Kok (NL, 1972) are simultaneously familiar and anonymous, flamboyant and timid. They give expression to an era and generation. They are self-aware in their fragility, self-assured in their adolescence. The photographs are presented in Het HEM’s toilets, a place where people are usually alone and noise fades to the background. In their absent presence they literally let silence fall.

Guillaume: ‘Menno’s an amazing portrait photographer. He works with these really distinct characters, which gives a certain direction to his practice. The more confident people feel about themselves, the better able they are to engage in a dialogue. That’s why it’s so important to know where you come from; that’s where you find the building blocks for the knowledge of self.’