After two years, the time has finally come: Willem Mevis is passing on the title of ‘AB’s in-house photographer’ to two newcomers. Maya Callizaya and Bram De Jaegher from Brussels are set to follow in Willem’s footsteps.
The two emerged as the favourite pair out of more than 100 candidates. On Thursday 17 September, at the opening of Willem’s Back/Stage exhibition, the baton will be officially passed on. Back/Stage, a portrait of Ancienne Belgique marks the culmination of Willem Mevis’s tenure as AB’s in-house photographer (2024–2026).
"These two years have been great fun and so educational. You really do have the creative freedom to develop as a photographer here. I can definitely say that I have grown a lot as a photographer thanks to the challenge of every single show." (Willem Mevis)
Fancy finding out more about Bram and Maya? Have a read and pop along on Thursday 17 September – everyone’s welcome.
Who are you?
MAYA: My name is Maya Callizaya; I’m a 29-year-old photographer of mixed Belgian and Bolivian heritage. It still feels a bit strange to call myself that, but I’m absolutely delighted that I’ve finally been able – and dared – to turn my passion into my (part-time) job 🙂. I love the magic of live concerts, so I’m sooooo happy that I can now attend even more of them and capture them on camera at the same time. I’m really grateful to AB for this opportunity!!!
BRAM: My name is Bram De Jaegher, and I’m 25 years old. What started as a little challenge I set myself to always take the very best iPhone photo at concerts grew into a real passion for photography in 2023. A good photograph can transport you back, in a fraction of a second, to a specific moment, a particular evening or a feeling you may have long since forgotten. It’s precisely those moments that I want to keep capturing.
What are your expectations of the role as in-house photographer?
MAYA: I think I’m going to learn a great deal (because there’s still so much to learn, of course) and I’m naturally expecting some brilliant concerts: a top-class programme combined with a top-class venue – that's got to be good!
BRAM: I’m so proud to be part of AB’s new musical journey. As the new in-house photographer, I’d therefore like to capture both the intimate and the electrifying: from low-key moments to evenings when the venue goes absolutely wild. AB’s programme has something for everyone, and it really appeals to me. It’s precisely that versatility that I think would be fantastic to capture as a photographer.
Which concerts are you most looking forward to?
MAYA: At the moment, I’m really looking forward to Susobrino (que viva Bolivia!!), Warhaus, Ezra Collective and you name it!
BRAM: I’m already massively excited about seeing Isaiah Rashad, JPEGMAFIA, DIKKE & IJSLAND. My passion for hip-hop will certainly be well and truly satisfied for the time being.
How can we recognise your images?
MAYA: I think my style is a bit dreamy and laid-back (perhaps a bit like me, haha).
BRAM: I really love contrast and black and white in my photos. That style often gives me the freedom not to fill the frame completely. I love it when a photo captures a moment, yet leaves enough to your imagination for you to decide for yourself how it felt or looked to you.
© Willem Mevis
