Illustrationsudkast til H.C. Andersen, Snemanden 1866 - 1867

Editor: This is a sketch by Lorenz Frølich from 1866-67, titled "Illustration draft for H.C. Andersen, The Snowman," rendered in ink. It’s a curious drawing; there's a stark contrast between the detailed figures and the almost unfinished lower section. What kind of story do you think this intends to tell? Curator: The image brings forth compelling narratives about the self and society. In many ways Frølich reflects the societal attitudes of 19th century Denmark, particularly through the lens of gender roles. What do you observe about the body language of the couple? Editor: Well, they're walking closely together, but their expressions seem...apprehensive, almost? Curator: Precisely! Now, consider the snowman. It stands rigidly, a frozen entity observing them, isolated against the darkness of the forrest. In terms of its cultural relevance at the time, Romanticism highlighted folk traditions. Could this narrative possibly mirror the constricting societal expectations that the emerging middle-class experienced in 19th-century Danish society? What purpose does fiction play in our understanding of such complex times? Editor: So the snowman isn’t just a snowman; he’s representative of an almost inescapable structure? That's a profound thought. So Frølich is actually exploring something darker using this tale? Curator: Exactly! Frølich prompts us to think critically about the structures and figures we take for granted, the ‘snowmen’ that silently preside over our choices and possibilities. It asks about our resistance towards said figures. What would resistance in the image sound like? Editor: Maybe, drawing the snowman melting, being unbound. This really changes my perception of fairytale illustrations. I will carry such critical awareness moving forward in the program. Curator: Excellent! It's vital to recognize the quiet challenges to societal norms artists can create. Art invites that re-examination.