Kalenderblad november met uil en mus 1902

Editor: Here we have Theo van Hoytema's "Kalenderblad november met uil en mus" from 1902, a print and drawing in woodcut. I am struck by the intense gaze of the owl and the dramatic contrast between light and dark. How do you interpret the visual language of this piece? Curator: Formally, the artwork orchestrates a visual hierarchy, establishing a dialogue between line and shape. Notice the vertical thrust of the owl against the horizontal grid of the calendar. This immediately tells us something about the use of the composition in the image and our gaze toward it. The use of geometric and naturalistic shapes create a visual motif. Would you agree? Editor: I see the contrast you're talking about; the owl looming above the strict calendar grid, but the soft watercolour wash of the owl almost contradicts the strictness of the line. Curator: Precisely. The muted palette contributes to a subdued tonality, further heightening the visual tension. This contrast is especially distinct as a symbol in Art Nouveau in this era and place. One sees here a tension between the two primary concerns of Art Nouveau: to design with modern machinery yet at the same time recall the past and a preindustrial design style. This print very aptly displays those tensions, as well as many others that you pointed out. Editor: I see that! It almost feels like it captures the feeling of the shift of eras at the turn of the century, both celebrating modernity and mourning what was left behind. Curator: Yes, it exemplifies a fascinating dialogue. This particular choice of colour serves to draw focus upon that shift by a tension between line and shape. Do you find anything in this work to now reflect on? Editor: Looking closely, I appreciate how Hoytema balanced contrasting elements to express a nuanced perspective. Thank you. Curator: Indeed, the piece encourages close observation and prompts considerations of how an artist communicates with their contemporary cultural situation through basic visual elements.