Scheltens & Abbenes bring avant-garde photography to Shenzhen

Dutch photography duo Scheltens & Abbenes are showcasing their visionary works at the Shenzhen Art Museum in Longhua District, their first solo exhibition in China. Running until April 13, “The Boundaries of the Image” offers an immersive look at their distinctive approach to photography.

Comprising photographer Maurice Scheltens and visual artist Liesbeth Abbenes, the duo is known for transforming everyday objects into thought-provoking visual narratives. Their works are often commissioned for museums and design brands.

Featuring over 80 works, the exhibition is their most comprehensive retrospective to date. Unlike a conventional display, it is conceived as a large-scale photographic installation. The artists arranged and reimagined images from different periods, creating a dynamic visual dialogue.

A hallmark of their artistry is the interplay between the flatness of photography and the three-dimensionality of objects. This immersive exhibition invites visitors to experience objects as theatrical props, blurring the line between image and installation.

Shenzhen Daily photographer Lin Songtao captured some images of their Shenzhen exhibition.

Visitors are captivated by Scheltens & Abbenes’ works on display at the Shenzhen Art Museum in Longhua District. Photos by Lin Songtao

A Scheltens & Abbenes’ work on display in the exhibition.

A Scheltens & Abbenes’ work on display in the exhibition.

A work of Scheltens & Abbenes on display in the exhibition.

A visitor takes photos of works on display.

Visitors are captivated by Scheltens & Abbenes’ works on display at the Shenzhen Art Museum in Longhua District.

A work of Scheltens & Abbenes on display in the exhibition.

One of Scheltens & Abbenes’ work on display in the exhibition.

One of Scheltens & Abbenes’ work on display in the exhibition.

A Scheltens & Abbenes’ work on display in the exhibition.