Two worlds

The 1960s saw two very different ‘Cultural Revolutions’; one setting strict social norms and restricting people’s individual freedom in China, the other liberating individuals from restrictive social norms in the Netherlands.

Our upbringing could not have been more different, and even after 30 years together in some subtle ways these two worlds are still a part of us.

Following are a few photos from a larger series that examines the environments that shaped us.

Both living in the same world, but each looking at it through the eyes of our own history

Guangzhou, China; on the go - delivering goods to shops is a physically demanding job

Guangzhou, China; reading the news to pass the time

Guangzhou, China; games of checkers and mahjong are opportunities for socialising

Guangzhou, China; not much to do for kids but look into the shops

Guangzhou, China; food is an essential part of Chinese culture

Amsterdam, Netherlands; on the go - a bike is the fasted way to get around the city

Amsterdam, Netherlands; reading the news to pass the time

Amsterdam, Netherlands; when it comes to socialising, the Dutch enjoy a lively discussion

Amsterdam, Netherlands; for kids plenty of playgrounds and clean water to swim

Amsterdam, Netherlands; summer is best enjoyed with music and drinks on a terrace