Lucht 1574 - 1651

Editor: So, this is "Lucht" by Abraham Bloemaert, likely made between 1574 and 1651, and it’s done with pen and ink. I'm immediately drawn to the contrast between the earthy shepherds and the ethereal figures in the sky. What should we make of this work? Curator: For me, this drawing offers a compelling look into the production of imagery during Bloemaert’s time. It’s pen and ink – fairly common materials, readily available. Think about the accessibility of image-making here; anyone with the means could theoretically create something like this. What social class might produce this? And consume the artwork? Editor: That's interesting. I hadn't considered the social implications of the materials themselves. Maybe a rising merchant class with access to education and some leisure time? Curator: Precisely. And notice how the landscape, while detailed, seems almost secondary to the figures. What does that hierarchy of figures to landscape tell you about what's valued in this work and by whom? How the economy changes art composition? Editor: Perhaps it highlights a shift in focus from strictly religious or historical narratives to a burgeoning interest in the human figure, possibly reflecting a growing sense of individualism? Maybe patrons requested focus on humanity instead of landscapes as time goes on? Curator: It could signify that change! The medium allowed Bloemaert to more cheaply supply drawings and preliminary versions to these new clients who wanted individualized depictions. Ultimately the piece reflects back the society that supported its creation, in a very literal, material way. Editor: I guess it is all tied to economic drivers and their impact on subject matter, technique and medium choice. The possibilities that flow from something so common as ink and pen are quite interesting to think about now! Curator: Indeed. Considering the materials allows us a grounded perspective, connecting the art directly to the people and conditions that shaped it.