Student life often seems like a carefree time, but the reality is a lot more complex for many. In Breda too, students struggle with a shortage of affordable rooms and financial problems that make the future uncertain. Performance pressure is high, mental health is under pressure, and loneliness is a growing problem. Not everyone feels seen or welcome in the city: MBO students and others who experience inequality of opportunity are still fighting for their place. The idea for this exhibition originated with Raimke Groothuizen, lecturer at Avans University of Applied Sciences. In cooperation with Verbeter Breda, Urban Living Lab Breda, Curio, De Rooi Pannen, Breda University of Applied Sciences (BUas) and Avans Hogeschool, this initiative was further developed. During conversations with students, all kinds of stories emerged. These stories form the core of (Well)being a student, an exhibition that shows what it really means to be a student in a time full of expectations and uncertainties.

BredaPhoto told their story during this period during the large-scale photography festival. Based on this year's theme, ‘Journeys’, you discovered BredaPhoto through the years. You could also score some cool merchandise, all produced locally and sustainably. Some products are still for sale in the store! 

The exhibition ‘Through the eyes of...’ featured as the first exhibition in the Explore Breda Store. According to a saying, walls sometimes have ears. But what would the 150-plus Breda Blind Walls see if they had eyes? Would they see the smile of a casual passer-by, the familiar face of the woman across the street or the curious glances of neighbourhood children? The murals themselves cannot tell, but the residents can. We asked several Breda residents about the stories accompanying ‘their’ mural. Several videos told what Blind Walls Gallery's murals mean for the city of Breda and its residents. Did you miss the expo, but are curious to hear the stories? Then click on the button below.