Studier af blomster, bl.a. påskelilje, med artsangivelser 1919

Curator: Looking at "Studies of flowers, including daffodils, with species indications" by Niels Larsen Stevns from 1919. It's rendered in ink on paper, a seemingly simple drawing. What strikes you most? Editor: The vulnerability, almost like a scientist's private, slightly clumsy notebook. I’m drawn to its lack of formality, that exposed line work. Does it give you that raw kind of feeling too? Curator: Definitely. The artist captures this idea through these spare lines, these quick impressions—daffodils in nascent form. I think these studies show Niels Larsen Stevns connection between observation and notation; drawing acts almost like labeling nature's catalog. Editor: Do you think he sees his work connected to a scientific lineage of natural study or something else, from what you know about the time, in social and political terms? I mean, I think it certainly communicates something on this more subtle personal dimension. Curator: During the early 20th century, the period that "Studies of flowers…" originates from, a strong artistic nationalist fervor was happening and affecting the field of visual production.. Artists often went outside academic settings in order to study real surroundings and environments—think plein air and naturalism which influenced that change! This may reveal this work—especially sketches such this work reflects desire or intention outside prescribed convention regarding proper forms for the work. Editor: True. So, with these botanic studies in line with a burgeoning nationalist perspective emerging within the Danish arts—do these humble illustrations signify themes linked closely linked its society back around then when thinking both environmentally but also regarding heritage? In light's historical framework like environmental and culture change? How the culture changed society—and cultural expressions which this shows this. Curator: I think you’re on to something! A daffodil could carry immense cultural value within this nationalist setting perhaps… Editor: Right. I will appreciate a humble flower drawing. Curator: Me too!