Twee pelikanen aan de waterkant 1884 - 1952

Curator: This pen and pencil drawing is entitled "Twee pelikanen aan de waterkant," which translates to "Two Pelicans at the Waterside." It's attributed to Reinier Willem Petrus de Vries, created sometime between 1884 and 1952. Editor: Immediately, I’m struck by the stillness and quietude of the scene. The soft pencil work and subdued composition evokes a tranquil atmosphere. Curator: I agree. The work evokes a moment of quiet observation. Given that the artist was active during a period marked by significant colonial expansion and exploitation of natural resources, this quiet depiction prompts us to consider the portrayal of animals. Editor: In what ways? I am wondering how this portrayal relates to broader power dynamics inherent to the representation of animals in art. It's easy to idealize nature, but not always easy to reckon with how human actions affect vulnerable animals and ecological systems. Curator: Precisely! Representations of nature aren't neutral. Examining artistic trends—specifically Realism here—through ecocritical and postcolonial lenses illuminates how even seemingly benign depictions contribute to constructing ideological justifications of dominion over both human and non-human subjects. This pelican rendering fits that context well. Editor: Right. Even the artistic materials contribute, paper and graphite feel humble. What do you think, would they signal that the artist wanted to render a naturalist's scene? It evokes a field study or a naturalist's notebook, less focused on imposing grand narratives and more on subtle observation of nature. Curator: It certainly supports that theory, as does his choice of a quick drawing rather than a lavish painting to create more humble representation. In relation to similar academic works of the time, this could suggest some form of critical dialogue towards a dominant style. Editor: I leave this drawing appreciating it anew for what it reveals to me, the art history lessons being told through it!