Brief aan Willem Bogtman 1935

This is Richard Nicolaüs Roland Holst's handwritten letter to Willem Bogtman. While undated, it’s a glimpse into the personal and professional life of Holst, an artist deeply engaged in the cultural and political currents of his time. Holst was a Dutch artist known for his socialist ideals and his commitment to art as a tool for social change. His beliefs, and position in society, were shaped by the socio-political landscape of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a period marked by the rise of socialism and labor movements. The letter hints at the practical aspects of artistic production, mentioning materials, shipping, and personal matters. In it, you can also find Holst's desire to use art as a bridge between people. The intimacy of the handwritten form is charged with the warmth of connection, providing insight into the value Holst placed on human relationships. It gently reminds us that behind every artwork is a network of individuals whose lives intertwine.