Brief aan Anna Dorothea Dirks Possibly 1925

Curator: This drawing, titled "Brief aan Anna Dorothea Dirks," is believed to be from 1925 and was crafted by Johan Huizinga. It is pen on paper. Editor: The texture makes me feel like I could reach out and feel the weave of the paper. It has the effect of stillness... almost as if holding history. The pen strokes convey great care in writing, doesn’t it? Curator: Precisely. Let’s look closer at the structure. The lines of text, executed in what seems like dark ink, dominate the composition. Can you feel its materiality emanating? This drawing exists on a tangible, physical object, bearing witness. The words feel grounded; I almost feel their echo. Editor: It’s the intimacy that grabs me, this handwritten note—especially juxtaposed against the date at the top. What are the stories held inside that inky script? One can gather it's a personal letter based on the first words, addressing someone by the name "Anna." This work also exists on a plane of communication. Curator: Absolutely, Johan's writing almost invites us to imagine the emotional state of the artist as he composes his message. Do you notice the absence of decorative elements in this highly personal work? It lacks pretension... and yet conveys a degree of complexity despite its simplicity. It feels very vulnerable to put your unfiltered thoughts onto the world; do you agree? Editor: Indeed, Huizinga lets the script become its own texture in an effort to portray that intimacy to Anna. What do you take away from looking at this today? Curator: What strikes me most is the work’s directness. The letter shows honesty and intention, doesn't it? Editor: It truly captures how simple communication is the backbone of life, showing one letter as a way to connect.