Buitenvermaak 1903 - 1919

This chromolithograph, “Buitenvermaak” printed by Emrik & Binger and designed by Arie Willem Segboer, captures little moments of childhood. I’m imagining Segboer arranging these vignettes, layering images, and building up this scene. What was he thinking when he made this? I am really feeling the horse, the color and composition of that scene. It looks like a dream sequence. The other images have a similar feel, of suspended, quiet contemplation. It reminds me of folk art with its childlike and innocent appeal. It’s like a world of imagination has been captured in each small moment. Maybe this is how he saw childhood, or wanted to remember it, or even an emotion. There is something deeply human about this and its connection to childhood. The way Segboer arranged the children in nature is an ode to play and freedom. And the title “Buitenvermaak”, or outdoor entertainment, perfectly captures its essence. Segboer is in conversation with many artists of childhood, and in turn inspires my own work.