Kalenderblad voor januari 1896 1895

Theo Nieuwenhuis created this calendar page for January 1896 as a color woodcut. It’s a striking example of the Dutch Art Nouveau, known as “Nieuwe Kunst,” embracing nature while using bold, stylized forms. Made in a period of significant social change, the image reflects an interest in accessible art. The piece is a calendar; a functional object of the time. The design speaks to the influence of Japonisme with its flat planes and stylized depiction of snow-laden branches. Consider how the choice of a calendar, an everyday item, democratizes art, bringing aesthetic pleasure into the domestic sphere. It’s a stark contrast to the elite art institutions of the time. To understand the design choices, we might consult periodicals and design theory publications of the period. These can illuminate the artist’s intentions and the cultural values Nieuwenhuis was engaging with. This artwork reminds us that art can be found in the most unexpected, utilitarian places.