Exhibition — I Am Here: Self-portraiture, selfies, and the power of visibility

From April 3 to May 31, 2026, the Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB) presents I Am Here at the Espace Vanderborght — an exhibition exploring how we see, stage, and share ourselves, from painted self-portraits to digital selfies.

What separates the timeless self-portrait from the modern selfie? Why do we feel the urge to show and share our image today? By bringing classical artworks into conversation with digital-era practices, I Am Here examines the addiction to media, self-performance, and the political power of self-representation — especially for women and minorities whose visibility has long been contested.

From painted self to digital identity

Balancing art and science, the exhibition weaves together works from the 19th century to the present day, interactive installations, and pieces from Belgian collections (Schaerbeek, Mons, Charleroi). Alongside these historical works, emerging Brussels-based artists — selected via an open call — bring fresh voices to the conversation.

As visitors move through the exhibition, they encounter multiple entry points: from the studio canvas to the smartphone camera, from classical portraiture to networked self-performance. One section focuses on the selfie as a daily practice — exploring its social rituals, its activist strength, and the tensions between self-expression, commodification, and empowerment.

Engaging, playful, and self-aware

Through mirrors, props, and photobooths, I Am Here invites everyone to experiment with image-making — a playful yet thoughtful way to rethink how we construct our identities in a hyper-connected world. The show also integrates an educational program for schools and families, raising awareness about digital literacy, image rights, and the ethics of self-representation.

A civic and inclusive project

Developed in partnership with the City of Brussels, I Am Here reflects ULB’s commitment to openness, diversity, and critical thinking. It’s an exhibition that dares to ask what it means to be seen — and what it means to be here, fully and unapologetically.

🖼️ I Am Here
📅 April 3 – May 31, 2026
📍 Espace Vanderborght – Rue de l’Écuyer 50, 1000 Brussels
🎟️ More info: ulb.be

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