Charmaine de Heij

The Netherlands is the Best

Charmaine de Heij, C-prints and publication, 2024

The Netherlands is the Best is a visual examination of the absurd remnants of colonialism still embedded in Dutch society. A well known example are the statues of sea “heroes” that flaunt themselves in various city squares. On Marktplaats, however, you will also come across iron chains and shackles that were once used to secure enslaved people. For the enthusiast, there are maps for sale of the Dutch colonies in 1840, nice for the living room wall? Another ad offers a bracelet with VOC charms. What do these and many other sales advertisements say about contemporary society and the way we look at a violent and underexposed history?

The project furthermore exposes the inappropriate glorification and trivialisation that are still present in some corners of society. Although the king, Willem-Alexander, officially and recently apologized for the slavery past, it remains unclear to some why these apologies were made due to a general lack of knowledge about our colonial past. Charmaine thinks it’s necessary to stay in dialogue and show that it is an ongoing relevant conversation.

With her latest photo series and book, Charmaine challenges viewers to ask questions and explore what lies beyond their frame of reference and understanding. Using photography as an educational tool, she aims to create a meaningful effect and engage the viewer in a dialogue.