Geschiedenis van Jan de Wasscher en zijn Griet / Histoire de Jean et Marguerite 1866 - 1902

Curator: This is “Geschiedenis van Jan de Wasscher en zijn Griet / Histoire de Jean et Marguerite,” created between 1866 and 1902 by Franciscus Antonius Beersmans. The comic-strip style layout on aged paper, using graphic art and print techniques is what stands out for me initially. What do you think? Editor: It looks like a children's book or maybe a storyboard for a play. What's interesting is the kind of homespun quality of it - the obvious handmade quality. What can you tell me about this piece? Curator: Note how the narrative is delivered not through high art, but through the readily available, accessible form of print. What statements do you think Beersmans is making about labour, material and consumption, using this folk art style? The materials are inexpensive. The distribution is wide, making it popular amongst all types of people in society. How does this challenge the traditional definition of what is considered fine art? Editor: So it's the accessibility and process of production that elevates this above, say, an equivalent painting made for the elite. By embracing comic strips which were widely distributed it democratizes art making. It becomes, I suppose, less about artist genius and more about getting a story to the masses. Curator: Precisely! It shifts our focus from individual mastery to the means of production and consumption. Think of the labour involved, both artistic and in the distribution process, and what story is it telling about class and Dutch society. Editor: That’s a real change of perspective. Thanks, I will think about this piece in an entirely different light now! Curator: Me too! Thanks.