Capturing the Soul of Schiphol: "Hoeden en Petten" is Now Open!
It is finally here! After months of roaming the terminals, meeting incredible strangers, and clicking my shutter at just the right moment, my exhibition "Hoeden en Petten op Schiphol" (Hats and Caps at Schiphol) has officially opened its doors.
Standing in the Schipholscoop visitor center yesterday for the opening ceremony, I felt a profound sense of gratitude. Seeing the massive wall of 350 portraits—a sea of faces from every corner of the globe—reminded me why I started this project in the first place.
The Story Behind the Lens
Schiphol is a world within a world. In 1996 alone, over 27 million passengers and 43.000 employees passed through these halls. I wanted to capture that diversity through a single, simple lens: what we wear on our heads.
From the sharp, professional caps of pilots and flight attendants to the colorful headscarves, weathered fedoras, and playful beanies of travelers, each "hoed" or "pet" tells a story. It’s a mark of identity, a uniform of a profession, or a shield against the journey ahead.
A Grand Opening
I was honored to have Hans Smits, the President-Director of Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, officially open the exhibition yesterday, June 12th. It was wonderful to see so many of you already pointing out your favorite faces on the portrait wall!
"People of all nationalities with different backgrounds and cultures. Everyone with their own story. At Schiphol, they meet."
Visit the Exhibition
If you find yourself at the airport this summer, please stop by! Whether you are a traveler with a long layover or just visiting for the day, I hope these portraits make you stop and wonder about the stories behind the eyes of your fellow passersby.
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Location: Visitor Center "Schipholscoop," Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.
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Dates: 13 June through 15 August 1997.
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Hours: * Mon–Fri: 10.00 – 18.00
Sat–Sun: 10.00 – 17.00
Thank you to everyone who let me take their picture and to Schiphol for hosting this celebration of human diversity.
Warmly,
Lise Gerson Lohman
