Reclamekaart voor kunstlessen van R.W.P. de Vries Jr. 1884 - 1952

This Reclamekaart voor kunstlessen was designed by Reinier Willem Petrus de Vries Jr. sometime in the early 20th century and it’s a simple advert on paper. It’s quite minimal, almost like a blueprint, and in this way, it treats language a bit like color. The blocky, bold lettering at the top feels kind of assertive. The forms are so grounded; but then those curls soften the edges, so it's not too harsh. I like that tension. It kind of reminds me of Philip Guston, but with words. It’s so handmade – like you can almost see the artist’s hand. Look how each letter is slightly different, and how they jostle for space. The whole image feels like it was a real process - a way of thinking through making. And in a way, this card really encapsulates the heart of what art can be: a tangible invitation to others. A means for people to find a place to come together and share ideas, like the many conversations that happen across time and art history.