Notities c. 1876 - 1879

Editor: This is Anton Mauve’s “Notities,” made with ink on paper, sometime between 1876 and 1879. It strikes me as a very private piece, almost like a glimpse into the artist's mind. What can you tell me about it? Curator: This work provides an intimate connection to Mauve, doesn't it? Think about the late 19th century – a time of burgeoning literacy, but also rigid social structures. Handwriting, then, becomes this powerful act of self-expression. How do you think the act of writing in this era interacts with societal constraints and norms, especially when considering something as private as a sketchbook? Editor: That's a good point. So, these aren't just random jottings. Could this be seen as Mauve carving out a space for himself within the confines of his time? Curator: Precisely. The deliberate act of writing, the pressure of the pen on paper, that's physical assertion. These 'Notities' are more than just records, they're assertions of self. They show the intersection of public life and personal thought. Notice that some of the script fades or is unclear. What does that tell us about the intended audience and use of this piece? Editor: It definitely emphasizes the personal aspect, since they weren't necessarily meant for other people's eyes. Curator: Right. It prompts us to consider the social function of art and, by extension, the role of the artist in society. Consider that Mauve, as van Gogh's cousin-in-law, likely grappled with artistic identity. In what ways could this intimate and arguably radical visual language been perceived in a time when academic traditions still ruled? Editor: I hadn’t thought of it like that before. This gives me a completely new perspective, thank you! Curator: My pleasure. Thinking about art in this context makes it more real.