Brief aan Jan Veth Possibly 1901 - 1931

This letter was written in 1901 by Jan Toorop, the Dutch-Indonesian painter, to Jan Veth, an art critic and painter. The letter concerns the preparations for an upcoming exhibition, giving us a glimpse into the artistic networks of the time. Toorop's identity was complex, marked by his mixed Dutch and Javanese heritage, born in the Dutch East Indies. Returning to the Netherlands at a young age, his artistic journey involved navigating both European and Javanese cultural influences. You can sense Toorop's desire to foster inclusivity within the art world, mentioning his intent to showcase works by young, emerging artists. Embedded in the letter is a call for 'fresh talent'. In addition, Toorop's words echo a sentiment to move beyond established norms. As you consider the letter, reflect on the ongoing dialogues around representation, cultural exchange, and the complex negotiations that shape our identities.