Imagine how photography began, with pioneers experimenting with light and technology, way before the smartphone. During this tour, a FOMU guide will take you through early Belgian photography.
Discover how this new medium influenced society and what power dynamics arose between photographer, the photographed, and the public. Explore the multifaceted nature of 19th-century photography, from portraits to medical and juridical images, and delve into the stories behind these unique photographs.
After the introduction of photography in 1839, the medium was quickly embraced in Belgium. The country, just gaining independence in 1830, developed into a major hub for technological innovation. Thanks to the wealthy middle class, which considered photography the new means of presentation, the medium got off to a flying start in Belgium. The Belgian government, the industrial sector and the financial world also actively contributed to the rapid spread and development of photography.
In the exhibition Early Gaze, FOMU presents never-before-seen photographs from the 19th century and highlights the diversity of the medium. From familiar subjects such as portraits and landscapes, to less common photography such as propaganda, medical and legal photography. This exhibition offers a fascinating overview of the versatility and development of early photography. Learn more about the pioneers who put photography on the map in Belgium and discover hidden stories behind the lens during a guided tour with a FOMU guide.
Practical information
- For who? secondary education, for all majors. When making your reservation, please indicate the age, level and/or area of interest of the students, so our guide can prepare the visit to your needs
- Duration: 90 minutes (1,5 hours)
- Max: 20 students per group
- Per group of 15 students, 2 supervisors are admitted free of charge. For each group of 15 students, at least 1 supervisor must be present.
- Museum admission: free for visitors under 18 years of age
- Period: from 24.10.2025 to 01.03.2026
What to expect?
- During a 1.5-hour guided tour, the guide will take you through the history of early Belgian photography.
- The guide delves deeper into a selection of artworks and you learn the stories behind these extraordinary and rarely shown photographs.
- The guide encourages students to look critically and consciously at historical images and connect them to today's world.
- Students are given assignments to actively engage themselves
Themes & competences
- Themes covered: photography, history, imaging, power relations, representation, identity, experimentation, image manipulation, photo industry, 19th-century photography, camera obscura, old photographic techniques, analogue photography, consent/authorisation, colonisation, world exhibitions, science, art, reportage
- Key competences: physical and emotional awareness, social-relational, sciences and technology, citizenship, historical awareness, self-awareness and self-expression, cultural awareness
- Relevant subjects: visual arts, physics, chemistry, citizenship, photography - video - film, behavioural & cultural sciences, history, philosophy of life, media & communication - social skills, philosophy & moral sciences, Dutch, English, French
