Jan Yoors

Jan Yoors was a Belgian-American artist and photographer known for his multifaceted work spanning photography, tapestry, and writing. Born in Antwerp, Yoors had an extraordinary early life—at age 12, he left home to live with a Romani tribe, an experience that deeply shaped his worldview and later artistic work.

His photography often focused on marginalized communities, especially the Romani people, whom he portrayed with rare intimacy and respect. His 1967 book, “The Gypsies”, combines his striking black-and-white photographs with personal memoirs, offering a powerful and empathetic insight into a misunderstood culture.

Beyond photography, Yoors was also acclaimed for his monumental tapestries, created in collaboration with his wife and studio partners, blending modernist aesthetics with a humanist sensibility.

His life and work reflect a deep commitment to cross-cultural understanding, storytelling, and artistic exploration.