Portret van de kunstenaar Johannes Janson c. 1769 - 1787

Editor: Here we have Louis Bernard Coclers’ “Portret van de kunstenaar Johannes Janson,” a pencil drawing made sometime between 1769 and 1787. The subject’s intense gaze and rather unusual hat give the portrait an air of eccentricity. What strikes you most about this piece? Curator: Immediately, I'm drawn to the construction of identity within the confines of the artistic milieu of the late 18th century. How does Coclers, through Janson's depiction, challenge or reinforce prevailing social structures linked to artistic identity? The hat, seemingly an unconventional choice, becomes a powerful symbol. Editor: A symbol of what exactly? Rebellion? Artistic freedom? Curator: Possibly both. Think about the socio-political landscape of the era. What does it mean for an artist to publicly declare a break from societal expectations? How did institutions dictate norms? And did portraits often contribute to a specific artistic persona, one that conformed to societal roles? Editor: So, you are saying that this portrait could be seen as a commentary on the role of the artist in society? Curator: Precisely. Every deliberate choice contributes to a wider discourse about art as an instrument of social discourse, in effect dismantling, if only on the surface, old models. Editor: It’s fascinating to think about this pencil sketch in terms of power dynamics and artistic expression. I initially only thought it was interesting because of the hat. Curator: And that's the power of art! It allows a conversation to emerge, shifting perspectives, sparking action, hopefully towards dismantling bias.