Oorkonde 1938

Editor: This print, “Oorkonde” from 1938 by Dirk Vels Heijn, uses typography on paper. The style is very direct, very… utilitarian. It feels like a government document. How do you interpret this work in light of its history? Curator: This is fascinating from a historical perspective. It's more than just a document; it's a glimpse into the societal structures and bureaucratic language of the time. Given the date, 1938, we must consider the rising tides of nationalism and the increasing formalization of state power in Europe. Editor: How does that translate to the piece itself? Curator: Notice the directness of the text and the rigid typography, almost like official letterhead. The text translates to "To the Mayor and Aldermen of the Municipality," a formal address indicative of centralized control and administration. The phrase “Plaatwerk, verzoeke niet te vouwen,” meaning "Artwork, please do not fold", adds an interesting layer, suggesting that this may have accompanied something more substantial or official, treating something disposable almost reverentially. This could speak to a desire for order, an attribute that carries significant weight in that period. Editor: So it's less about the artistic expression and more about the cultural and political moment? Curator: Precisely! How does this type of imagery, however seemingly banal, shape the public's perception of authority and the state? This work, through its seemingly simple design, speaks to a whole host of complex historical and social themes regarding state legitimacy, civic duties, and expectations for those fulfilling them. Editor: That gives me a whole new appreciation for what I initially saw as a rather bland piece of graphic art. I had never thought about how such ordinary forms can uphold cultural expectations! Curator: Indeed, analyzing art through this lens provides a deeper understanding of its meaning and purpose, transcending its aesthetic value. Thank you for engaging on how institutions affect artwork.