Apostelen 1609 - 1670

Editor: This drawing, "Apostelen," created by Karel van Mander III between 1609 and 1670, uses charcoal to capture the Apostle. I’m struck by the warm tones of the chalk, giving a very serene and meditative feel to the portrait. What captures your attention when you look at this piece? Curator: It's interesting you say meditative because, to me, there’s a raw, almost visceral energy pulsing just beneath the surface of this portrait. I see the Apostle caught in a moment of internal reckoning. What's the story in those eyes, eh? You almost feel like he’s sizing you up, deciding whether to trust you with some great, earth-shattering secret! What do you make of his posture? Does that inform your read on the emotional tenor of the piece at all? Editor: That's an interesting read. I see his posture as more relaxed; perhaps resigned, leaning on a staff, with hands clasped. Perhaps he’s wearied by a lifetime of preaching. He looks thoughtful. I missed all that visceral energy you picked up on! Curator: Ha! Well, isn't that just it? Art, like life, reflects back to us our own stories and experiences. It’s all about the story YOU find. It’s funny, sometimes the story comes to me like a thunderbolt. Others times… well, I need to wrestle the Angel a bit to bring that story out. Editor: That’s so true; there is no right or wrong way to appreciate art! Curator: Absolutely. We come seeking a sort of truth, eh? And sometimes, that truth reveals itself not in answers but in deeper questions! This image of a weary yet strong Apostle reminds us about it, I think. Editor: Definitely given me a new perspective! Thank you!