Man houdt een fles drank in de lucht in gezelschap van vier vrouwen before 1954

Curator: This is a work by Hans Borrebach, entitled "Man houdt een fles drank in de lucht in gezelschap van vier vrouwen", dating from before 1954. It’s rendered in pen and drawing. My initial impression is one of social commentary; the piece appears to depict a sort of performative excess. Editor: Performative excess is a great way of putting it! The ink work, it’s all quite gestural, almost slapdash, but you can still make out the individual details like the cook's hat, the clothing, and even what appears to be a very opulent chair. It's as though the drawing process itself mimics the fast-paced, lively scene that’s depicted. Curator: Absolutely. The use of drawing as a medium reinforces that caricature feel. We get a glimpse into the visual culture of a time. The artist's process and their intention certainly appear connected. It evokes the satirical publications of the period, perhaps. What’s interesting is the title which gives it a gendered narrative: the focus on the man rather than, say, a celebration. Editor: And observe the material qualities of the print. The paper is visible. This work perhaps wouldn’t have even been intended as a lasting object of "art" at all, and perhaps intended for reproduction in mass media and distribution. That certainly colours my reading, I would suggest, because it reminds me how crucial labour, accessibility and means of productions are to an image's social impact. This piece can be understood as capturing something quintessential in its social setting, using simple but highly expressive methods to make a lasting impact. Curator: I find your emphasis on materials brings valuable attention to production's effect. From the cultural perspective, Borrebach is inviting us to think about performance, gender, and, class—in terms of accessibility for different publics. Editor: Indeed. Thinking of the drawing process this way is more enriching and provides depth to my knowledge! Curator: Likewise. I am leaving with a new appreciation for drawing and its accessibility.