“Prayers come in many ways shapes and forms, music, dance, laughter, art and so much more. I’d like to believe that the universe does not have a preferred mode to receive these frequencies of hope we emit.”
Every month we showcase new art in our café-restaurant. This month, we present ‘Universal Prayers’ by Jaer Vogelland. Universal prayers (2024) is a mixed media collage made from second-hand magazines, and serves as an abstract visualizer to contrast the everyday realities and intricacies of blackness that he captures in his documentary photography. Combining the real with the Afro-surreal.
Your work is titled ‘Universal Prayers’. The first thought that pops up with prayer is usually one of religion or a holy space where this is being done. How would you describe your view on prayers?
Prayers come in many ways, shapes and forms, music, dance, laughter, art, and so much more. I’d like to believe that the universe does not have a preferred mode to receive these frequencies of hope we emit.
How do you identify as an artist and where does your vision come from?
My artistic vision is grounded in a deep sense of purpose and social awareness. I believe art can serve as a powerful tool for social change, and I am committed to exploring innovative ways to express ideas and perspectives. Focusing on Black normality, I aim to shift the perspective from individualism to collective identity—using my viewpoint to express, celebrate, and connect with others.
Can you tell us a bit more about your most recent work?
My recent work combines elements of modern beliefs about the self with Afro-Surinamese spirituality, expressed through mixed media, spoken word, and traditional documentary photography to create unique experiences. This body of work reflects the importance of art in shaping our collective understanding of the world.
Your work seems to be a combination of multiple methods. How do they come together in one project?
Through documentary photography, I offer a grounded, realistic point of view—capturing moments as they are lived. In contrast, my mixed media collages and spoken word soundtracks explore the surreal reality often faced by Black communities, creating a layered narrative of existence, both the seen and the felt.
Earlier you spoke of shifting from individuality to a collective identity and black normality. How did traveling influence your artistic process within this mission and what would you like to find through this?
An intention I aim to continue, through my lens, voice, and efforts, is to look beyond my own neighborhood and explore the African diaspora wherever it stretches. The places I consider “local”—Amsterdam, Almere, Suriname, New York, London, and Paris—have provided me the privilege of meeting people who look like me, with whom I may share little geographically but feel deeply connected to in the grand scheme of life. This privilege has not always been available to me, as I spent most of my life in Almere and two years studying in Amsterdam. My previous works are a testament to my experiences in these environments, and I now seek to expand my horizons.
By exposing the imagery and stories collected in Amsterdam and Almere alongside those from other key diasporic cities, I hope to answer a fundamental question: Is there a global diasporic mindset, shaped by shared histories, struggles, and aspirations? And if so, how does this manifest in the ways Black people document and express their lives?
Any last words on your beautiful work?
Coming home after being wayward, after experiencing for yourself, after everything — youʼll still be received.
Jaer’s work “Universal Prayers” will be on display in the café-restaurant in May. You can now easily make a reservation for dinner through our website.
See more of Jaer Vogelland on his personal and photography instagram
