Foam Fotografiemuseum Amsterdam Spotlights Fidelio Faustino's 'Tapsei' Series and Artistic Vision
Foam Fotografiemuseum in Amsterdam recently highlighted the impactful work of Fidelio Faustino, a distinguished Foam Talent runner-up. His compelling series, 'Tapsei', delves into themes of healing and identity, offering a fresh perspective on Black and Indigenous narratives from Suriname.
Faustino's 'Tapsei' project is a meditation on how historical scars can mend through quiet reflection, personal connection, and empathy. It reimagines colonial portrayals of identity in Suriname, presenting subjects with deep respect. The series title, 'Tapsei', originates from a Sranantongo term meaning 'upwards', also referring to the Surinamese interior, home to part of the Amazon rainforest. This word further signifies a navigational process, both geographically and historically, mirroring how individuals find their place within their personal history and natural environment.
The work intricately connects the self, history, and landscape as interdependent elements. Through this relational web, a strong, embodied sense of self emerges, demanding mindful attention. Faustino purposefully reclaims the narrative gaze, drawing inspiration from memory, spirituality, and imagination to offer a stark contrast to Eurocentric depictions of Suriname. His photographs are imbued with moments of quietude and introspection, fostering connections between the past and present, land and body, and one’s inner world and outer surroundings. This insightful perspective was featured in Foam Magazine #68: Talent, published in June 2026, offering readers an in-depth look at the Foam Talent runners-up. Interested individuals can order their copy of the magazine here.
The Artistic Journey of Fidelio Faustino
Fidelio Faustino is a versatile cinematographer, director, and photographer, dividing his time between Paramaribo and Amsterdam. His artistic practice focuses on culture as a medium to forge new expressions of identity, using imagery to redefine Black and Indigenous representations. Faustino has received notable accolades, including being named a winner of the Dutch Photography Award and Fresh Eyes Award in 2025. In the same year, PhotoVogue recognized him among its top 100 Latin American talents, leading to an exhibition at the PhotoVogue Festival in Milan. His debut solo exhibition of 'Tapsei' took place at Foam in September 2025.
For those interested in discovering more groundbreaking photography and art, Musemap (musemap.art) provides a curated guide to cultural experiences across the city. Explore the diverse museums in Amsterdam or find out what's on during your visit.
