Brief aan Héloïse Bernard-Bodin 1878 - 1941

This is a letter written by Emile Bernard to Héloïse Bernard-Bodin, likely dating to November 1894. It’s a deeply personal message, handwritten in purple ink on lined paper – ordinary materials for an intimate exchange. The material itself, humble and easily sourced, stands in stark contrast to the emotional weight of the letter's contents. The deliberate act of handwriting, each word carefully formed, speaks to the investment Bernard had in this correspondence. The choice of purple ink may hint at the symbolism the artist imbues into the act of writing, while the ruled paper underscores the disciplined intention behind the letter. We might consider the labor involved – the time spent in contemplation, the physical act of writing, and the emotional energy invested in expressing his thoughts. The letter’s existence reminds us that even the simplest materials, when imbued with intention and care, can become vessels of profound expression. The absence of artistic medium allows for the appreciation of the artistry of writing and the act of communication.