30 Aug – 3 Nov 2024
Hama Gallery proudly presents “This Makes Perfect Sense to Me,” the debut solo exhibition of artist Melissa Schriek in the Netherlands. In this new series of works, Melissa continues to delve into the dynamics of female identity, relationships, and self-expression. Inspired by her ongoing exploration of the female form and its interaction with the environment, Melissa’s work captures the essence of femininity in all its forms.
Melissa’s fascination with women and their stories has played a significant role in her journey as a photographer. From her early years to now, she has remained steadfast in her commitment to portraying the complexities of female experiences. In her own words, “I primarily photograph women for my personal work. There is so much interesting to tell about being a woman.” Melissa captures moments of intimacy and connection, highlighting the importance of collaboration and mutual understanding. Her background as a dancer is evident in the images she captures with her camera. Initially sparked by a disposable camera given to her by her father, Melissa’s interest in the medium evolved into a passion that led her to study at the Royal Academy of Art (KABK) in The Hague.
Experimentation is the foundation of Melissa’s process; she constantly pushes the boundaries of her practice, embracing new techniques and the opportunity to fail and learn. Her residency in 2023 in the garden of Hama Gallery allowed her to explore the fusion of photography and painting, adding layers of texture and meaning to her images. “Painting over my images has become very important. It feels like discovering hidden stories in my existing work.” This discovery allows Melissa to breathe new life into archived photos, now focusing on shapes, lines, and textures.
The Japan series—a focal point in this exhibition—reflects Melissa’s fascination with the expressive potential of the female form. By collaborating with women in Japan, she captured moments of liberation and empowerment, challenging norms and perceptions. By providing them a platform in front of her camera, she hoped to foster a sense of agency and self-expression in public spaces.
“This Makes Perfect Sense to Me” offers a glimpse into Melissa Schriek’s unique perspective on the world, inviting viewers to question the boundaries between photography and painting and the subjective nature of perception. Everyday objects and interactions serve as starting points for her creative exploration, prompting a reconsideration of the meaning of the seemingly ordinary. Through her lens, she challenges prejudices and finds beauty in imperfection, offering a fresh perspective on the human experience.
