Ton Sondag

Ton Sondag. Photographer/Artist (1961)

As a small child, I would often hide inside my head from the big bad world around me, and focus on the details of the surroundings I was in at that moment. This is how I started to examine the world around me more. I think this is how my love for photography was born.

During my childhood my thoughts were racing so much, that photos were more a way of creating souvenirs than visualising my feelings. I was not really aware of that at that moment.

There was also a period in my life that I used my camera as a mask when I was feeling down. I hid myself to be able to keep going.

Travelling and experiences have taught me everything, and being self-taught, this was necessary. First I photographed still images of desolate areas, often with the ocean as a theme, but my work has grown more towards the people person that I am.

The transformation took place 2 years ago, when I received schema therapy. Where there was fear of failure, it was replaced by curiosity.

The birth of Project Adopted.

Kim van Schie

Born in 1981 and active in my own business. With Storyline media, I make videos and write texts for companies and organisations that are trying to realise a positive impact on society. But most of all, I am an adoptive mother. I wrote the book ‘Hallo lieverd’ (‘Hello, darling’) about my personal experiences regarding the adoption of our daughter Pauline from Nigeria.

Just after the book was published, I read about ‘Project Adopted’ by Ton. It got to me, because I realised once more how complex the topic of adoption actually is. And because I know from personal experience how difficult it can be to share your personal story about it. However, sharing those stories can create something beautiful. Because I believe in the power of stories, I approached Ton and offered my help. This is why I am currently interviewing a number of people who pose for Ton’s photographs, and I write down their stories. Sometimes, this has added value for myself as well; I acquired some new insights. Sometimes, it can be confrontational, sometimes reassuring, but always useful. I am happy to be part of this project.