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Rogier Houwen (b. 1992, Laren, NL) is a photographic artist based in Amsterdam. He graduated from the University of the Arts Utrecht with a Bachelor's degree in Photography in 2015. Since then, his work has been exhibited internationally by galleries and art institutions.
Houwen’s practice centers on a deep sensory exploration of landscapes—not merely as visual subjects, but as multi-layered spaces with physical, conceptual, and spiritual dimensions. He approaches the concept of landscape as a living context, engaging with it through a dialogue in which the camera serves as an extension of his body. The resulting images undergo a phase of study and experimentation in his photo lab, where Houwen applies digital and analog printing techniques to hand-made papers, resulting in subtle, tactile, drawing-like photographic works.
“I am always deeply fascinated by my surroundings. This fascination stems from a childlike wonder I have never lost—this state of being is the foundation of my work. On this foundation I am exploring ”
Recent projects have emerged from international residencies in Italy and Mexico. In 2023, Houwen was invited by the Forci Art Foundation to produce site-specific work during a two-month residency at Tenuta di Forci, a regenerative farm in Tuscany. In 2024, he was invited for a solo exhibition at Terreno Baldío Arte in Mexico City. In preparation for this exhibition showing his latest seriesCosmos, Houwen traveled across Mexico, photographing Maya temples, caves, cenotes, and botanical gardens. The resulting series explore the intersection of natural and man-made environments, engaging with landscapes as sites of historical, spiritual and ecological intelligence.