Limited edition fine art prints

FROM THE STREETS TO THE HEART

I photographed 30 LGBTQIA+ people in New York who have experienced homelessness. Every portrait comes with the person’s own story and a symbolic cityscape. A selection of 13 artworks from the series, portraits and cityscapes, is available here as fine art prints, in four sizes. Each artwork is limited to five prints per size. Every print is numbered and comes with a certificate of authenticity.

When the exhibition stood in New York’s West Village, 33,000 people saw it. They stopped, they stared, some of them cried. One mother came back every day and whispered the stories to her children, until every face felt familiar. These are people who stood up for themselves and fought injustice, even when it cost them their home. Their strength stays with you.

The Guardian called this project "one of the more challenging, necessary and successful collections in this year’s Photoville festival."

Every artwork is limited to 5 prints per size. When a size is gone, it is gone.

See Their Humanity. Feel Their Struggle. Share Their Hope.

When was the last time you truly saw someone living on the streets? Not just glanced, but felt their story resonate within you?

For three years, I’ve roamed New York City, drawn to the shadows where 30 remarkable LGBTQIA+ individuals share their lives.

My project, 'from the streets to the heart', seeks to unveil their often-overlooked stories.

Imagine feeling unheard and unseen, your existence overshadowed by the world. This exhibition honors their strength and resilience, challenging us to confront the perceptions that keep them hidden.

In seeing them, we might just discover a part of ourselves we’ve long forgotten.

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You Receive a Stunning Fine Art Print

A limited edition print on Hahnemühle Photo Rag Pearl, made in my own professional lab. Every print is numbered and comes with a certificate of authenticity.

Shipped By Me

Your print is ready for shipping 10 days after your order. Delivery time depends on where it goes.

About the project, the portraits, the cityscapes and the impact of the exhibition in New York City.

Visitors of the New York City exhibition said:

  • “The 'From the Streets to the Heart' exhibition offers more than art; it’s an unfiltered look into the lives of marginalized youth. As someone who teaches social inequality, I found the work to be an invaluable resource for understanding the intersection of identity, homelessness, and resilience. This exhibition should be part of every conversation on social justice.”

    JOHN, UNIVERSITY PROFESSOR (SOCIOLOGY)

  • “As a social worker, I've worked with LGBTQIA+ youth for years, but Ernst's exhibition brought their strength and vulnerability to life in a way I've never seen before. These portraits are more than just images, they are windows into the resilience of young people who face unimaginable challenges. Truly moving and essential viewing for anyone who cares about human rights.”

    ELLEN, SOCIAL WORKER / LGBTQIA+ ADVOCATE

  • “Seeing this exhibition meant so much to me as a young queer person who has struggled with acceptance. The way Ernst captured the humanity and strength of these kids made me feel seen. It’s not just about the hardships they’ve been through, it’s about their survival and spirit. This exhibition gave me hope and a sense of belonging.”

    RICKY, LGBTQIA+ YOUTH

  • “As a parent, this exhibition touched me deeply. Seeing these young people, who have been through so much, but still have so much strength, made me appreciate the importance of community and support. The photos are beautiful, but the stories behind them are what really made an impact. It’s an exhibition that stays with you.”

    JESSICA, PARENT

about the artist

I grew up as a gay kid in a small town in the south of the Netherlands. I was bullied, and I often felt alone. At 19 I moved to Amsterdam, and for the first time I could just be myself.

That is why I photograph people who are pushed to the edges of society. I want to show how strong and beautiful they are, and give them space to tell their own story.