Exposition & débat - Re-adjusting the focus
Join us for an evening of dialogue and reflection in the exceptional setting of the Toneelhuis in Antwerp.
Doctors Without Borders invites you to a vernissage and conversation around how we want to use images and language today. How do we ensure that photographs are not only viewed but also correctly understood? How do we stop shocking images from affecting us and how do we turn onlookers into active participants?
In recent years, MSF has rethought its use of images and narratives, adopting a more inclusive and ethical approach that better reflects the diversity and humanity of those we assist.
Discover how Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has shifted its narrative and visual practices.
During this event, we will explore crucial topics, such as:
- Ethical choices in representing communities in humanitarian campaigns;
- Why "shocking" images evoke less and less empathy and how to address this;
- The importance of transforming the audience into active participants rather than passive spectators;
- Patient consent as the cornerstone of their agency and our commitment to bearing witness.
Moreover, afterwards, you can take a seat at the Bourlaschouwburg (Toneelhuis) for Bertolt Brecht's performance ‘Mother Courage’ directed by Lisaboa Houbrechts, about a woman and the consequences of war.
The evening will be divided into two parts:
- 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: (only in Dutch)
- Exhibition's openings and introduction to explore the lessons learned from this process;
- Visit to our exhibition and buffet provided by Toneelhuis
- 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM: Mother Courage, Bertolt Brecht's theaterplay (spoken in several languages, with Dutch, French and English surtitles).
The evening, the exhibition and the explanation will occur in Dutch only.
Missed the event? Don't miss the exhibition, open until April 5, 2025.