Antwerp not only boasts its own fantastic photography museum, but also a great selection of galleries that are specialised in the field. This month is especially heavy with magnificent photo shows and we selected the four you definitely shouldn’t miss out on. See you there!

Otani Nieuwenhuize at Ibasho gallery

Until 19 March

This exhibition at Ibasho Gallery in Antwerp is the result of a rather unlikely joint project of Japanese photographer Shinji Otani (1972) and Dutch photographer Johan Nieuwenhuize (1980). Together they examine cultural tourism by looking at places where culture is being “consumed”. For example they visited the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam and the shrine of Dazaifu Tenmangu in Japan, investigating the places from their individual perspectives while creating a collective memory. Interesting approach!

Harry Gruyaert at Gallery Fifty One

Until 8 April

Fifty One Gallery, one of Belgium’s major photography galleries, invites you to “It’s not about cars”, a solo show by Belgian-born Harry Gruyaert. The renowned Magnum photographer is most famous for his explorations of the functions of light and colour, which are evident throughout his oeuvre ranging from TV images to photographs taken on his travels in Moscow or Morocco. A timeless classic!

Alec Soth at FOMU

Until 4 June

We are so excited about this one featuring photography superstar Alec Soth! With “Gathered Leaves” FOMU is bringing the American Magnum member to Belgium for the very first time, presenting a retrospective incorporating four critical series from his wide-ranging oeuvre. As one of today’s major documentary photographers, a teacher, Instagrammer, publisher, and blogger, Soth has a big influence on the young generation. His approach is fuelled by his fascination for the vastness of America, recalling Robert Frank, Stephen Shore, Jack Kerouac and the likes. An absolute must.

Vulnerable Dimensions at Ingrid Deuss

Until 11 March

At Antwerp’s Ingrid Deuss gallery, Belgian, London-based photographer duo Sofie Middernacht and Maarten Alexander, normally active in the fashion world, show one of their personal, more intimate series. “Vulnerable Dimensions II” unites hypnotizing portraits exploring choices and the challenges we face when making them. Captivating!