“I used to lash out with my fists, now I am making an impact with my photos.” — Stacii Samidin

In his powerful debut, photographer Stacii Samidin (b. 1987, Rotterdam) captures the raw honesty and radical spirit that defines his ongoing project, Societies. Through unflinching images, Samidin delves into the lives of minorities, the oppressed, and those living unconventional lifestyles across the globe. His work challenges our perceptions, urging us to see, hear, and accept one another without judgement. This collection not only documents minorities but also amplifies their voices, sparking a shift in both individual and collective consciousness.

With a text contribution by Tracy Metz and an introduction by Koos Breukel and Hedy van Erp.

During his teenage years, Stacii Samidin (1987, Rotterdam) had difficulty conforming to the world around him. Being labeled by stereotypes and feeling unheard himself, Hip Hop and radicalism became his allies. He started documenting his environment without the intent of becoming a photographer. This came to the attention of a professional documentary photographer who introduced him to the field. Shortly after, Samidin got the opportunity to exhibit his first series Moluccans in The Netherlands (2011), a controversial subject about the Republic of South Maluku (RMS) youth, in the Nederlands Fotomuseum. From that moment on Samidin understood the power of his medium. Photography became his language and it continues to have a tremendous influence on his personal life and strong work ethic. 

Becoming the first gang photographer of The Netherlands was his goal until he was yet again confronted by stereotypical labels and started travelling extensively. This developed the desire to question one’s truth. Studying the relationship between the character of a person and its environment. Offering a platform for open and honest dialogue. A broader motive came to life: Societies (2008).