Gastvrijheid 1894 - 1959

This illustrated cartoon, *Gastvrijheid*, which translates to Hospitality, was created by the Monogrammist G.J. Imagine G.J. drawing each scene in sequence, mapping out the narrative across the page. A series of vignettes is laid out here, each depicting the concept of "hospitality," but each seems to show the opposite. Notice the color palette; muted browns, greens, and reds create a historical feel, maybe like scenes from medieval times. I can imagine G.J. bent over their drawing board, carefully rendering each figure and expression. What was G.J. trying to say about hospitality through this comic strip-like layout? Are they commenting on the performative aspect of welcoming strangers, or critiquing societal expectations? The sword fight, in particular, has a dramatic flair. I wonder if G.J. was influenced by other illustrators or cartoonists of the time. It's interesting how art can spark conversations across time, each artist responding to and building upon what came before.