Recycled Portraits: Suzanne Jongmans' Renaissance-Style Photographs Made from Discarded Packaging

Suzanne Jongmans' photographs, made from discarded packaging, challenge traditional notions of material worth and aesthetic appeal. By transforming waste into luxurious, Renaissance-style textiles, Jongmans redefines visual value and invites viewers to reconsider the relationship between waste, value, and beauty.

Jongmans' use of recycled packaging as a medium for her portraits is a deliberate choice, one that underscores the potential for waste to be transformed into something of value. The textures and patterns of the packaging are incorporated into the portraits, creating a sense of depth and visual interest. The photographs are not only beautiful but also thought-provoking, encouraging viewers to think critically about the materials they use and discard.

The Renaissance-style composition of the portraits adds an additional layer of meaning to the work. The use of classical poses and lighting creates a sense of timelessness and elegance, which is juxtaposed with the humble origins of the materials. This contrast between the refined, aristocratic poses and the discarded packaging highlights the transformative power of art and challenges traditional notions of beauty and value.

In conclusion, Suzanne Jongmans' photographs made from discarded packaging are a powerful example of the potential for creativity and innovation in the face of waste and excess. The use of recycled packaging as a medium for the portraits challenges traditional notions of material worth and aesthetic appeal, and the Renaissance-style composition adds an additional layer of meaning to the work. The photographs are a testament to the transformative power of art and encourage viewers to think critically about the materials they use and discard.

## Source briefing (use only these URLs)

# Editorial briefing — 2026-08-12

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