Niassche bruid 1919

This is Johannes Frederik Engelbert ten Klooster’s woodcut print, 'Niassche bruid'. What I love about printmaking is how the artist has to think in reverse. It’s a process of thinking through the negative space, carving away at the block with chisels and gouges. Just imagine the concentration it takes to create such intricate details of the Nias bride’s face, headdress, and ornamentation. The smooth, clean lines create a striking contrast between light and dark, emphasizing the bride's serene expression. It makes me wonder, what was ten Klooster thinking when he made this? Was he fascinated by her inner world, or was he seduced by the beautiful forms? Perhaps both! Either way, it’s clear that he had a deep respect for his subject. Looking at this, I want to get back into my studio and push some paint around. See what happens! It’s all about the conversation, the back and forth between artists across time.