Atjehsche hengelaar c. 1930

Curator: J.F.E. ten Klooster created this woodcut around 1930, titling it “Atjehsche hengelaar,” which translates to “Acehnese angler.” Editor: The stark contrasts create such a somber, almost austere, mood. The figures seem weighted down by shadow. Curator: Ten Klooster lived in the Dutch East Indies for some time. We need to remember that these images circulated back to the Netherlands and shaped perceptions of the colony and its inhabitants. Editor: The composition directs our attention immediately to the fisherman; his form looms large, nearly filling the frame. His elaborate hat contrasts with the plainness of the background. Curator: The sharp lines of the woodcut give a certain severity to the image. The work is one of several of Klooster’s which helped visualize Dutch colonialism. Editor: Notice how the textures are created. The diagonal lines across the boat create depth. Similarly, on his conical hat. The dark figures in the back make that middle ground of the horizon line pop. Curator: Consider the female figure, partly obscured, in the background. She seems more of an accessory than a main feature. We should question these depictions. How accurately do they reflect reality, and what purpose do they serve within a colonial framework? Editor: Visually, she’s balanced against the lines in the trees on the right. See how her head and hair, and the darker patches create a strong asymmetry that balances the composition. Curator: Studying this work allows us to engage with the complicated history of the Dutch East Indies and the role artists played in shaping its narrative. Editor: And from an art perspective, it’s a very sophisticated rendering in only two colors, using negative space to shape mood, form and line.