Inspired by legendary street photographers, Hans van der Meer left for Budapest in the fall of 1984. Minor Mysteries reflects what fascinated Van der Meer as a young and curious outsider in a country that at first sight seemed alienating and distant. Without a preconceived plan, he let his intuition guide him, wandering the streets like a director collecting scenes for a script. This is how he stumbled upon wonderous, playful, and at times tragicomic situations. In retrospect, the series is like a monument to an era in transition. An era nearing its end, in a city in the heart of Europe that seemed battered under the weight of history, but with hope for something new.

Photographs by Hans van der Meer. Fw: Books, Amsterdam, The Netherlands 2023. 176 pages. 9x8¾".