Mirjam Huisman was introduced as Apeldoorn’s new City Photographer on Saturday 5 September. Councillor Peter Messerschmidt announced her appointment during the opening of her debut exhibition, *Mustangs*, at ACEC. Huisman is Apeldoorn’s sixth City Photographer. She takes over from Sam Warnaar.
In *Mustangs*, Huisman turns her lens on the residents of Apeldoorn. She shows the city and its inhabitants as she sees them: as if in a film. The exhibition will be on display at the ACEC Salon from 5 September to 11 October 2026.
“I’m curious to see what new sides of Apeldoorn she’ll reveal over the next two years. I’m looking forward to seeing her work and wish her every success in her new role.”
Peter Messerschmidt, Councillor for Culture: “In Mirjam Huisman, Apeldoorn is gaining a city photographer with a unique perspective. Her photographs showcase people and stories that you might not always notice. I’m curious to see what new aspects of Apeldoorn she’ll reveal over the next two years. I’m looking forward to her work and wish her every success in her new role.”
Mirjam Huisman trained at the Fotovakschool in Amsterdam, where she graduated with honours. She works as a freelance photographer and specialises in portraiture. Her photographs are often raw and have a cinematic feel. Young people, members of subcultures, music and films are key sources of inspiration for her work.
Through her photographs, Huisman aims to give the viewer the space to create their own story. “I create portrait stories with no clear beginning or end, allowing the viewer to form their own narrative,” she explains.
The selection committee was impressed by the quality of her work and her distinctive artistic style. According to the committee, Huisman has the ability to portray Apeldoorn in a different, human and surprising way.
The City Photographer is an artistic ambassador for Apeldoorn. The photographer helps to raise Apeldoorn’s profile as a city of photography. This is achieved through the media, social media and activities in public spaces, amongst other things.
Every two years, the council appoints a new City Photographer. The photographer is supported and advised by a committee comprising representatives from ACEC, Apeldoorn Photo, CODA, the Fotovakschool and the council.
With the appointment of Mirjam Huisman, the tenure of the previous City Photographer, Sam Warnaar, comes to an end. Warnaar will be presenting her final exhibition from 13 September to 6 December 2026 The way I see you at the CODA Museum.
