Boom c. 1888 - 1901

Curator: Before us is a drawing entitled "Boom," which translates to "Tree," completed by Anna Catharina Maria van Eeghen. Although undated, it is estimated to originate between 1888 and 1901, rendered with pencil. Editor: It's quite subtle, almost a whisper of a landscape. The pencil strokes are incredibly light, giving it a fleeting, ephemeral quality. It makes me think of half-formed memories. Curator: Van Eeghen, who was active in artistic circles during this period, employed impressionistic techniques. Landscape art at the time was developing into something like Impressionism, so "en plein air" became commonplace, making her landscapes important snapshots of the time. Editor: I see it. That central tree, though simply rendered, dominates the composition. The marks surrounding it imply the form of more trees; however, they are faint. In some cultures, the tree is symbolic of longevity and strength. Do you think that holds weight in this context, considering Van Eeghen's status? Curator: That’s a rich idea, though it’s difficult to say definitively. Trees are also connected to national pride at that time in The Netherlands, something Van Eeghen likely experienced due to the political discourse in her local community. But she does diverge from typical Dutch artists of the era, such as Mondrian or Breitner. Her quiet scenes emphasize her role as an impressionistic outsider. Editor: Perhaps its simplicity *is* its strength. I'm especially drawn to the contrasts: The very structured trunk contrasts sharply against the ethereal, cloudy wisps indicating a copse of leaves. It asks us to focus on a small piece of land to contemplate the whole of existence. Curator: Looking closely, it is easy to find both a focus on tradition and the start of new styles in a modernizing Holland, as we find more women expressing themselves in landscape and artistic renderings. It provides a quiet moment to see just how gender shaped artistic license. Editor: Indeed, a glimpse into not just a landscape but into a changing era.