Strandgangers c. 1928 - 1930

Curator: This pen drawing, created by Otto Verhagen circa 1928 to 1930, is titled "Strandgangers," which translates to "Beachgoers." Editor: It has such a lighthearted, almost satirical quality. The exaggerated figures and their attire immediately catch the eye, especially the figure in the vibrant patterned robe. Curator: Indeed. The robe itself speaks to a certain class of leisure, hinting at the availability of resources needed for frivolous clothing, not simply for function. The very act of being a “strandganger” is rooted in time away from the labour of producing goods, pointing towards the emergence of leisure as a commodity during the interwar years. Editor: I agree. From a formal perspective, the artist employs a simple line and colour palette. Look how Verhagen uses the minimal linework and sparse colour washes to convey volume and texture. Notice how the robes’ patterns contrast sharply with the relative flatness of the other figures. Curator: These other figures appear almost childlike and certainly contrast with the figures that seem to look upon them with judgement, even mild distaste. Could Verhagen be subtly critiquing class divisions at leisure in this artwork? Editor: Perhaps. The children's lack of adornment really calls attention to the attire of the figures in the robes. I wonder if Verhagen used those specific motifs intentionally, perhaps reflecting broader fashion trends? It would be interesting to examine the production and availability of textiles at this time. Curator: Definitely. Analysing advertisements or other marketing materials might give us even more context about the aspirations tied to the depicted clothing. Such contextual materials can elucidate who exactly has access to particular leisure and status markers. Editor: The sketch's brilliance truly resides in the expressive use of the most basic components of art to say so much. Curator: Precisely; by digging into the broader context, from social hierarchies to the very availability of leisure and fashionable garments, a drawing such as this becomes even richer in the stories that it tells.