Diepenbeek (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Diepenbeek Library showcases 22 local writers in a photo exhibition by Anouk Kelchtermans, highlighting around 80 authors. Key figures include Marc Heleven, Frank Keunen, and Hilde Vandebroek, running until November 16, 2025.
As VRT News reported, the Diepenbeek library, in the province of Limburg, Belgium, is showcasing local writers with a new photo exhibition. They mentioned that the idea came from Anouk Kelchtermans, a photographer and library staff member, while preparing the library’s 5-yearly writers’ brochure. The brochure now lists around 80 authors from Diepenbeek. Some have passed away or moved away, but the number is still high for the town.
Who are the 22 Diepenbeek writers captured by Kelchtermans?
The exhibition presents 22 writers, each photographed in the places where they usually write or find inspiration.
“I didn’t want to take standard studio portraits, but to really get to know the people and photograph them in the places where their stories are born,”
says Kelchtermans.
“They took me into their world and shared their stories. That’s the most beautiful thing I could experience as a photographer.”
The photograph that is closest to Anouk Kelchtermans’s heart is of author Marc Heleven. She remembers the session clearly.
“He took me on the train, very original. What really touched me was that he now suffers from an illness, and all communication took place via scraps of paper,”
she said.
“It was very special to be welcomed into his life. He showed me that you have to seize every moment, in whatever way you can. It was a beautiful train ride, for which I am very grateful to Marc,”
Anouk Kelchtermans said.
The authors also praised her approach. Frank Keunen said,
“She captured my essence. She is not just a photographer who quickly comes in to take a picture. She explored who I am as a person and as a writer. After talking with me, she reflected that understanding in her photographs.”
It runs until November 16th, 2025, and can be visited during the library’s opening hours.
“She really did create a bond of trust through conversation. I find it strange to say, but I think the photo of myself is a great success,
says author Hilde Vandebroek.
All the photos are beautiful. They’re also very diverse, just like the people in them.”
Similar projects have taken place in Belgium, where libraries and cultural institutions have used photography to highlight local writers. The Royal Library of Belgium has hosted exhibitions exploring different aspects of Belgian literature and its history. The Letterenhuis in Antwerp also organises exhibitions that showcase the work of Flemish authors. These exhibitions often include curated displays that bring attention to the country’s literary culture. While the projects differ in size and format.
