Ontwerp voor de decoratie Kunsten en Wetenschappen op de Noordermarkt 1795

This 18th-century design for a decoration at Noordermarkt is rendered in pen and watercolor. The anonymous artist used these accessible materials to celebrate the arts and sciences. But how does the medium relate to the message? The design is likely a study for a temporary structure, perhaps made of wood and canvas. Watercolor, a portable and immediate medium, allows the artist to quickly capture an idea that will later be realized at scale, by other hands. Look at the figure of Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom, perched atop the clouds. She represents intellectual pursuits, but is also a figure of authority. Note the inscription at the bottom, proclaiming "No favor, but merit." This hints at a shift towards valuing skill and labor, rather than aristocratic patronage. The artist emphasizes materials, making, and context in this work, and challenges us to consider the social and political values embedded in creative practices.