1
INTRODUCTIONS
Members from right to left
Barnabás Áron Somogyi, Art History
I always like to learn new things, so I would be happy if I could broaden someone's horizons even a little bit. I have always loved art in every shape and form. I love bad weather, moody films, melancholic music and the comfort that comes from well-prepared meals.
Just how much I hate introductions … Since arriving at University all I do is, say my name, my programme, talk about my home country and force my cheeks into a welcoming smile while trying to pay attention to others doing the same. I’ve had enough! I’m not going to write where I’m from or what programme I’m in. I don’t care! By the way, I hope you will enjoy our magazine, we sure did enjoy making it!
Anastazja Twarowska, ACM
Hello, my name is Anastazja, I’m doing first year of ACM and in my further education I will be focusing on theatre and literature. My hobbies revolve around all kinds of art. I love literature, history and art history. I’m also a big fan of music (I constantly make too many playlists on my sportify) and create fake scenarios in my head since reality is brutally disappointing.
Katharina Kriz, ACM
Hey, my name is Katty, I’m in my first year of ACM, studying Film and Literature, but really I love all kinds of art. This is also reflected in my free time, which I like to spend exploring new artists and creative hobbies, reading, and playing the piano. I’m most interested in how the arts connect to our society and culture and what we can achieve through them, which is why I hope I can bring the arts closer to you in this magazine and give you something that makes you connect with the arts in your life. Enjoy reading!
Veronika Shevchenko, Art History Hey, nice to meet you, my name is Veronika, I’m studying Art History and I’m excited to explore the Art in Groningen with you. I believe that every place has art in it. All it takes is to look around. My rubric is designed to light up Groningen’s fascinating galleries, museums, architecture, installations, street artworks and much more so we can get to know the city better.
Aleksandra Sołtys, ACM Hi, I'm Ola and I'm a first year ACM student, studying film and music. Since I joined the committee, I wanted to focus on sharing knowledge about unusual, unknown, brand new or forgotten artists and cultures. I
TABLE OF CONTENTS Art Binocular Taking a Look around the World through 5 Art News
A Journey through the magical Properties of Perfume
Behind the Bright
1 6 9
Ranpo Edogawa Profile
Art in Groningen
12
Dreckschnabel
Interview Talk with Dr. Leo Delfgaauw
17
Monthly Taste of Culture
25
Artsy Minds
27
Comic
28 II
III
ART BINOCULAR Taking a Look around the World through 5 Art News UK Art and History Museum classifies Roman Emperor Elagabalus as a trans Woman The North Hertfordshire Museum in the UK has classified the Roman Emperor Elagabalus as a transgender woman and will from now on use female pronouns for the ruler in their descriptions. The decision was made together with the LGBT charity Stonewall, after it was Roman
Coins showing Elagabalus (Source: Wikimedia.org)
documents state that Elagabalus wanted to be
Other experts however, like Keith Hoskins,
referred to as a “lady”.
executive member of the “Enterprise and Arts
discovered
that
some
Ancient
at North Herts” Council, believe that these Elagabalus, who assumed the Roman throne at
accounts are evidence for Elaga-balus being
the age of 14 is a controversial historical figure
trans and wanting to be referred to as a woman,
and there has been a long-standing debate over
He states that “pronouns are not a new thing”
the leaders gender identity between academics.
and thinks that museums should reflect this in
Some scholars, like Dr. Shushma Malik, a
contemporary discussions about historical
classics Professor at the University of Cam-
figures.
bridge, claim that effeminate lan-guage was often used in Ancient Rome to slander political
A spokesperson for the North Hertford-shire
figures like the Emperor, and that we therefore
Museum has explained that it was “only polite
cannot be sure of Elagabalus’ gender. While
and respectful to be sensitive to identifying
there are accounts of the ruler wearing makeup
pronouns for people in the past”.
and wigs, these could have been written to “undermine the unpopular Emperor”.
1
Newly restored Music composed at Auschwitz to be played in London The young British composer and conductor
There, he heard of the musical scores and
Leo Geyer (31), who is currently completing his
manuscripts discovered at Auschwitz, that had
doctorate for music and composition at the
not been further studied for almost 80 years. In
University of Oxford, has recently finished
an interview with CNN Geyer said: “I knew
restoring fragments of the music that was dis-
there were orchestras in Auschwitz and that was
covered
of
what we were talking about because, as a
Auschwitz, and will play them with his orch-
musician, it was something I was interested in.”
in
the
concentration
camp
estra in an upcoming performance in London. In total, around 210 musical compositions had been found, though large parts had been destroyed, which made the pieces almost impossible
to
restore.
Geyer
said
that
reconstructing the music was “like trying to remember a novel, word by word, but music is immensely more complicated.” During his work, he returned to Poland four more times and has conducted detailed research into the orchestras at
Nazi concentration camps,
especially the one at Auschwitz. The music will be performed at the Sadler’s Wells Theatre in London by Geyer’s Constella Music orchestra, under the name “Orchestras of Auschwitz''. Part of the orchestra is Simon Leo Geyer, composer and conductor (Source:baselessfabric.co.uk)
Wallfisch, whose grandmother, Anita Lasker-
In 2015 Geyer travelled to Auschwitz because
stated that she only survived her year at
he was asked to compose a piece in memory of
Auschwitz because she joined the camp
the British holocaust expert Martin Gilbert,
orchestra. In an interview with the Holocaust
who had died earlier that year. As he is not
Memorial Day Trust she said: “as long as the
Jewish himself, he wanted to visit the site to
Germans wanted an orchestra, it would have
experience the necessary “sense of the gravity”
been counter-productive to kill us.”
Wallfisch, is a holocaust survivor. She has
– as he stated – of the work of Gilbert. 2
Banksy’s Identity revealed in a 20 year old resurfaced Interview? Banksy’s secret identity has been one of the
Mail as the “unmasked” Banksy in 2008, while
most famous debates in the art world, since the
others believe that Banksy is a collective of
street artist’s emergence in the early 2000s,
artist, rather than just one person.
with various UK artists having been linked to the name, like comic book illustrator Jamie
In the full rediscovered interview Banksy also
Hewlett or Robert Del Naja, part of the British
talks about how he sees his work not as
trip-hop band “Massive Attack”, though both of
vandalism but as “a quicker way of making
them have denied the claims.
your point”, adding that: “other people, they can change it. They can get rid of it. […] It is
Now, ten years after an interview between
equally somebody else’s right to go out and
Banksy and Nigel Wrench, former BBC arts
paint over it if they don’t like it.” He further
correspondent,
explained that he sees the city as a “big
the
2003
recording
has
resurfaced and seems to reveal the artist’s
playground” which they can “mess about in”.
identity – or does it? The resurfaced interview is part of the podcast Interviews with Banksy are rare and this early
series “The Banksy Story” and was released as
one provides the unique chance to hear the
a special clip on November 21st 2023.
artist’s voice and information about his first name. In the interview, Wrench asks Banksy if he could use his real name, assuming his name to be “Robert Banks”. To this the then 20 yearold Banksy responded with: “It’s Robbie”.
Variations of Robbie, Robert or Robin have been continuously suggested as names for Banksy, with the artist Robert Gunningham from Bristol having been described by the Daily
3
Art Rally for Earthquake Victims in Marocco continues On the 8th of September 2023 a massive
raise money for rebuilding parts of the affected
earthquake hit the High Atlas Mountains in
cities. Further auctions are planned in Decem-
Morocco, affecting thousands of people, with
ber.
almost 3000 deaths. The catastrophe also
Another crucial organisation has been the
destroyed large parts of the infrastructure and
“Artists for Morocco” collective of artists,
over 50 000 houses, according to the BBC.
which was brought into life by the editor Samira
The damage also includes important historical
Larouci, the designer Ismail Elaaddioui and the
sites like the ancient Jewish quarter in the city
photographer Anass Quaziz, immediately after
of Marrakech. Many of the city’s museums and
the earthquake hit. The organisation has raised
art installations have been affected as well and
210 000 € so far and plans to continue its work,
art organisations within the country have
mainly donating the money towards the “Rif
organised some projects to help with the
Tribes Foundation”, which supports secluded
rebuilding and recovery of the city.
villages, which otherwise can’t get much help, and the “Amal Women’s Training Centre”,
Museums in the centre of the city have been
which is a women’s charity for food delivery. In
especially affected, with severe structural
total, “Artists for Morocco” has provided help
damage and the danger of the buildings
across 16 villages for more than 2700 people.
collapsing. But not only art museums have suffered,
many
artists
have
lost
their
Larouci, one of the founders, states that this
workspaces or even their homes, like M’barek
organisation has proven “art’s ability to heal”
Bouhchichi, whose studio was located near the
and looks forward to promoting Moroccan
Atlas Mountains and was extremely damaged
artists along with international artists, through
by the earthquake.
and after the crisis, with a special focus on promoting local artists. She also highlights how
In light of this crisis, many organisations and
crucial it is for “Artists for Morocco” to
institutions have collected and donated money
continue its work especially in the winter
to the local communities since September, like
months, where many people live in tents and
the commercial gallery “Comptoir des Mines”,
will not be shielded from the cold.
which raised 100 000 €.
Eric Falt, regional director of the UNESCO in
On the 28th of October, an auction was held at
Maghreb has announced on the 21st of
the “Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and
November, that UNESCO will support Mo-
Contemporary Art” in Rabat, which included
rocco in the recovery of what was lost.
many professional artists, and which helped 4
A stolen Van Gogh worth Millions was returned in an Ikea Bag At dawn on the 30th of March 2020 – Van
the painting would have to pay a large fine.
Gogh’s birthday – a Van Gogh painting called
Brand stated that: “we knew that the painting
“The Parsonage Garden at Nuenen in Spring”,
would go from one hand to another hand in the
made in 1884, was stolen from the Singer Laren
criminal world, but that nobody really wanted
Museum in the Netherlands. The artwork,
to touch it [because] you could only get in
estimated to be worth between 3.2 and 6.4
trouble.”
million dollars, was a loan from the Groninger Museum. Now Arthur Brand, a world-renowned Dutch “art detective”, who has been described as the “Indiana Jones of the art world” has recovered the painting, stating that it was delivered to his apartment by an anonymous person, wrapped in an Ikea bag.
Arthur Brand withe the returned Van Gogh (Source: The Guardian)
The police believe that the person returning the artwork was not involved in the theft, as they
Brand has helped to recover more than 200
have identified the robber as Nils M., who also
paintings, many from famous painters such as
stole a Frans Hal painting in 2020, and who was
Salvador Dalí and Pablo Picasso, together with
sentenced to 8 years of prison and a payment of
some other items, like a gold ring gifted to
9 million dollars to compensate for the Hal’s
someone by Oscar Wilde.
painting.
The Groninger Museum has assessed the Van
Apparently, the Van Gogh painting circulated
Gogh painting and has stated that the painting
through
was
was stored in bad conditions and the quality has
ultimately unwanted because the thief had
therefore deteriorated but that it ultimately still
already been convicted, so anyone found with
is in good condition.
the
criminal
network
but
Katharina Kriz
5
A JOURNEY THROUGH THE MAGICAL PROPERTIES OF PERFUME For centuries, perfume has been associated
was crucial for a journey to leave the worldly
with magic, witchcraft, and sorcery. Its charm
life. Mehret - seven sacred oils (festival scent
lies not only in triggering memories and
oil, jubilation oil, pine oil, rejoining oil, support
emotions, but also in a belief that it possesses
oil, cedar oil and Libyan oil) were believed to
magical power. For years many mystical
invoke the divine “breath of life” of spirit Akh
narratives around perfume flourished across
- the spirit of a deceased person enabling the
cultures as people shared fascinations about its
soul to assume any form which made it possible
potential.
to travel to the afterlife. They calmed the gods, helped to connect deceased parts, and supported
We all tend to associate nice fragrances with
them during the journey. The opening of the
good and awful odours with bad, but it’s much
mouth ritual also served a purpose so those who
more complicated than that. To start with, the
passed away and temple statues could breathe
Kapsiki people of Cameroon are an example
the scents of cut lotus flowers and oils and
that proves how subjective it can be.
ingest the spiritual energy from the offerings.
Traditionally for them, cow dung perfume is
Interestingly, the same fragrances were used in
perceived as a status marker of wealth and
medicine, cosmetics or as religious offerings to
prosperity, in opposition to the fishy smell of
gods.
the low class of fishermen, thus it’s eagerly used to appear more sophisticated. Historically,
Europe, for centuries, centred its focus on
nice scents were often regarded as ambrosial
herbs, elevating scents to a prominent place
and delicious, powerful but also very dangerous
since ancient times. In Greece, fragrances were
and it was the same for those who dabbled in
the foundation for sorcery. Plants were regarded
perfumery.
as so potent that they could affect gardeners; it was even recommended for root cutters to
Egyptian funerary traditions of oil balming the
consume garlic and drink wine before work to
bodies involved various fragrant oils used for
shield themselves from dangers of other crops.
purification and preservation since it was
Moreover, aromantic plants were widely
believed that the state someone was buried in 6
associated with divinity as those who worked
purification and blessings, a practice commonly
with them were usually priests. It was mostly
known as smudging. This ritual held special
women that dealt with those potent plants and
significance, particularly during the dawn of the
the consciousness around powerful witches
New Year. This custom served as a link between
started emerging.
the earthly and the spiritual, but also the Celtic people and their surroundings.
An early example would be Medea - a skilled priestess able to put to sleep a beast with
In the Middle Ages, a shift of focus in how
narcotic herbs, or to rejuvenate Aeson by
smells function happened. Widely used in
creating a bath in herbs and his blood. She is
medicine, they became associated with both
also a student of Hecate, a goddess of magic and
physical and spiritual protection, from other
witchcraft which solidified her recognition.
spells or diseases such as plague, at the time
Women like her, who concerned themselves
treated as a punishment for sinfulness. Not only
with olfactory senses, used powerful fragrances
women were associated with herbology. That
but were never affected by them, were
was the time when monk-alchemists created
considered dangerous, as they had power over
many remedies. The Queen of Hungary's Water,
others, especially in seducing men. We could
the first alcohol-based perfume in Europe, was
say they were the first to show femininity,
one of them. Made from rosemary and thyme
strength of independence and ability to
(and later, several other ingredients) it served
persuade in very patriarchal times where they
various purposes - helped with headaches, or
didn’t enjoy much liberty in other aspects of
any kind of pain, cleansed the body or even
life.
reduced blindness.
Other fragrances are believed to have divine
On the other side of the world, in Central and
origin. Hindu mythology explains the creation
South America, one of the most precious
of Mysore Sandalwood. It was the desire of
ingredients was and still is a tree called Bursera
goddess Parvati, symbol of beauty and grace, to
graveolens, more commonly known as Palo
have an extraordinary fragrance. After she
Santo. Named by Spanish monks, this “holy
asked gods for help, Lord Vishnu gifted her
wood” was used by the Inca Tribe during rituals
Mysore Sandalwood. As a result, it is believed
and was thought to have endless potential.
that this fragrance contains divine essence and
Healing, cleansing, chasing away evil spirits are
can enhance spirituality and purity. It’s widely used
in
India
in
religious
just a few of the things that a warm, woody
ceremonies,
incense with a hint of freshness can do. The
traditional festivals or Ayurveda. Used in
aroma and the smoke could free from any
various ways, it can also be burned as incense,
unwanted
a practice known to many different cultures.
presence
or
energy.
Shamans
believed that Palo Santo has a strong spirit so it
The Celtic people had a unique tradition
should be treated with respect. It should only be
involving the use of juniper smoke for
harvested more than three years after the death 7
of the tree so it can help with balancing your
help in driving meaning out of the fortune
own well-being. These days, it’s still used for
order/arrangement.
purification but is mostly known for its calming
Magic of perfume acts as a universal language
properties that help people to get into a state of
connecting people with others, with their
meditation.
surroundings and their spirituality. In the world
Introduced at the beginning of the 19th century
of scents, fragrances play a vital role, acting as
in New York, citrusy and floral Florida Water is
a bridge between our earthly realm and the
a cologne associated with Fountain of Youth. At
spiritual. Not only do they possess calming and
first, taken by enslaved African Americans in
healing properties but also hold the potential to
their magic practices and then popular in
transport us into the transcendent. They are the
Voodoo rituals in the Caribbean and South
gateways to our memories and emotions, that’s
America, it became a known ingredient used for
why we assign so much meaning and power to
purification and as a medium to connect with
them. As Patrick Süskind writes in his book,
the spiritual realm and spirits of ancestors.
Perfume: The Story of a Murderer: "Odours
What’s most interesting, it is still used similarly,
have a power of persuasion stronger than that of
for example as an aid in bone-throwing
words, appearances, emotions, or will. The
divination. According to the New Orleans
persuasive power of an odour cannot be fended
Voodoo spiritual temple’s priestess, Miriam
off, it enters into us like breath into our lungs, it
Chamani, the scent has calming abilities that
fills us up, imbues us totally. There is no remedy for it."
Aleksandra Sołtys
8
BEHIND THE BRIGHT Ranpo Edogawa Profile introduced him to Ruiko Kuroiwa. His works were published in episodes in newspapers with terrific, full of horror and blood illustrations which left a lasting impression on young Tarō. He made his debut in May 1923, with the story “The Two-Sen Copper Coin” which won a competition for a criminal short story in wellknown Shin Seinen magazine. It was the first bigger work of a Japanese writer published there. It stunned the chief editor so much that he suspected the author of plagiarising western work. And the author was none other than Tarō Hirai with his new pen name - Edogawa Ranpo. It’s a humorous reference to Edgar Allan Poe,
Ranpo Edogawa (Source:Wikimedia.org)
whom he admired. Said quickly sounds Author, critic, a writer of popular and leisure
surprisingly similar.
literature for young adults or a well-known and
This first artwork was a detective story.
respected father of Japanese mystery and
Classically, it made a central point out of using
thriller fiction, Ranpo Edogawa is a fascinating
logical thinking to solve puzzles. What’s
man of many faces and an important figure in
interesting, the story incorporated various
Japanese modern literature.
elements of Japanese culture - a code based on
A grandson of a samurai and a son of a
a Buddhist chant “nenbutsu” and a Japanese-
merchant, he was born as Tarō Hirai in Nabari,
language Braille.
Mie Prefecture at the turn of the 20th century in
Edogawa became popular, almost overnight,
1894. In 1916 he graduated Waseda University
publishing many stories focused on solving
with a degree in economics. He worked various
crimes. At first his works often presented an
professions, not able to settle anywhere. The
intelligent protagonist unmasking mystery and
only constant thing in his life was the love for,
overcoming stumpers. That would change a lot
at the time still quite new, criminal novels. It
later.
was thanks to his mother - Kiku - who 9
During that time we can also clearly see western
his voice. In 1925 he decided to become a
inspirations in his works, “Psychological Test”
professional writer and it’s visible that his
(1925) being one of many examples. To
works became less and less realistic as he had
Western readers or just any Dostoyevsky’s fans
to provide new stories regularly to be able to make a living out of his job. More fantasy and
it might seem like a rewriting of “Crime and
a turn toward the deepest recesses of the human
Punishment”. The protagonist, a very poor, yet
mind and soul is apparent. He began to explore
witty student, decides to steal money from an
macabre and absurd.
old housekeeper and commits a murder. His best friend becomes the main suspect, but as the
Surprisingly that wasn’t the reason for a big
judge doesn’t believe he was actually able to
controversy over one of his books. “The
commit the crime, a detective is called to solve
Caterpillar'' (1929) got censored in all
the mystery, conducting a psychological test.
publications, not for being gruesome or morbid, but the fact that the main character was a
Sounds amusingly similar. One would say it
soldier. Even though Edogawa always remained
lacks originality, but we have to remember that
apolitical, at the time a military portrayal that
at the time, in Japan, it was treated very
was not a propagandistic puff had no chances of
differently to how we perceive it right now.
surviving. It took the author by surprise since
Especially during the Meiji era, which
the intent was not to belittle military efforts but
coincides with the author's childhood, honyaku
to show horror and sadness of human
bungaku - translated literature was a very
animalization and bestiality. It also became a
popular genre. It put translators in the spotlight,
ghastly prophecy of the near future.
sometimes even omitting the author's name, giving the interpreter credits for competences
Over time, he turned towards erotism,
and skillfulness in adapting foreign literature to
grotesque, nonsense (ero guro nansensu) and
Japanese audiences and culture. Having that in
overall bizarreness. Even though he wasn’t the
mind it shouldn’t be surprising that highly
first to write mystery fiction, he indeed was a
influenced by authors such as Edgar Allan Poe
pioneer in combining it with perversity.
or Artur Conan Doyle, Edogawa enjoyed
“The Demon of the Lonely Isle” was a novel in
popularity as one of the best authors writing
episodes published in a magazine between 1929
crime novels adapted for the Japanese readers.
and 1930. With the main character being
He lived and wrote in unpeaceful times.
homosexual, this crime story combines two
Experiencing severe earthquakes in the 1920s
very different perspectives - animalistic and
and 1930s, World War II and American
erotic descriptions of sexual desires and much
occupation must have had an influence over
more intimate and sensitive explanations of
Edogawa's mind. His style was constantly
human feelings. Even though the relationship
evolving. Other circumstances also impacted
with the main character’s lover is just one of
10
many subplots, it is still worth noticing as a very
Although quickly after his debut he became one
interestingly written artwork. Also, it correlates
of the most widely read authors in Japan, he still
with the author's biography in the light of his
was considered a popular literature (tsūzoku
later activities.
bungaku) or mass literature (taishū bungaku) creator. In opposition to junbungaku - pure
In the 1930s he, along with his friend,
literature created by an exclusive circle of
anthropologist Junichi Iwata, devoted himself
highly educated elites - these types of literature
to searching Western and Japanese books with
weren’t valued as much and weren’t considered
homoerotic motives. They contributed greatly
representatives of Japanese literature. He also
to creating queer historiography.
personally, never considered himself truly
In 1946 he helped in the creation of a new
worthy, as in his opinion he never managed to
journal - Jewels. A year later he founded the
write a “true” detective novel as great as those
Detective Author’s Club, later to be called
written by his idols - Doyle or Poe.
Mystery Writers of Japan, and created a
Nonetheless, he and his “unsuccessful” works
community for detective fiction writers. Since
remained popular and became inspirations for
1955 it has also awarded amateur writers that
many. After the war his works started to get
are starting their journey with commercially
made into films or theatre plays. Till this day he
published books with the Edogawa Ranpo
is a very influential figure in pop culture and a
Prize.
great inspiration for games, anime and manga.
In the 1950s he worked on translations of his
A surprising and fascinating, multifaceted man,
book into English. With a translator only
one could argue that is one of the most
speaking Japanese and Edogawa only reading
important figures in modern thriller literature in
English, the translations were done aurally.
Japan and worldwide.
Writer had to read aloud each sentence so it could be converted and written down, in order
Aleksandra Sołtys
for him to read and check it. Being sick, he died at home in 1965.
11
ART IN GRONINGEN Dreckschnabel When I arrived in Groningen, my first friend was the local city creature, I met him during my night foray exploring the neighbourhood. I was new here, had not yet found people or my place, and
loneliness
autumn cold seeped me
and into
the
smell
of
the
usual
for
midnight promenades. And here he was
standing alone too, tall, a little hunched over watching the silence. I said hello, and thought it was nice to see him, so I knew my acquaintance with the city com-menced from his guardian.
This was Dreckschnabel, a character creaed by artist Hans Mes in 1984.
Dreckschnabel, freestanding bronze sculpture, Hans Mes (1984), 2, 40 m, Bij de Sluis (Source: Original)
Hans Mes (born in Utrecht, 1950) studied at the Groningen Academy of Art ("Minerva") from 1973 to 1979, where he obtained a diploma in two
disciplines:
sculpture
and
monumental design.
His work includes not only monu-mental designs but also small sculptures, reliefs, portraits and medals. He also writes poetry and paints watercolours. The artist characterises his art as visible symbols of things invisible.
Dreckschnabel, freestanding bronze sculpture, Hans Mes (1984), 2, 40 m, Bij de Sluis (Source: Original)
12
GAMMA - is a play of meanings, the work is located
on
the
roof
of
the
former
the
Netherlands
Gamma faculty.
Communication
studies
in
are called Gamma studies. Two people sitting at a table formed
by
the
building,
shaping the
mathematical
/
talking
Greek
and
Gamma
character.
Gamma, Art in/on a building, Hans Mes (2001), 5 x 3 m, Messing, Zernikelaan 23 (Source: hansmes.com) Man in Ligstoel, freestanding bronze sculpture, Hans Mes (1984), h 0,85 m, Floresplein (Source: hansmes.com)
MAN IN LIGSTOEL (MAN IN A LOUNGER) - a work defined by its place. This sculpture was created as part of the redevelopment of
Bataviastraat
Buurt
in
neighbourhood.
the At
the
Indische time,
the
neighbourhood was home to many drug addicts. In the image of a sickly man in a deckchair, as on many Dutch verandas in old Batavia, and with a coin in his hand, two stories meet - the colonist parasitising on the wealth of his colony, the drug addict on his body.
Vogelvrij, freestanding bronze and coated steel sculpture, Hans Mes (2004), h 6,14/7,00/5,25 m, Kornalijnlaan (Source: hansmes.com)
13
VOGELVRIJ (OUTLAW) - The title of the work is translated into English as outlaw, but it is worth paying attention to the etymology
- “VOGEL”
is
Dutch
for
“bird”, “VRIJ” for “free”. The author talks about the meaning of the work as
follows:
The
term
“vogelvrij”
originally referred to corpses that were not buried but left as prey for birds. It denotes those who were universally persecuted. The meaning of the sculptural group cannot be explained simply and unambiguously. After all, everyone has their own thoughts and experiences related to the theme of my sculptures. Political or religious persecution, Winkelhaak, art in/on a building, Hans Mes (1992), Brick, Messing, 8 x 8 m, W.A. Scholtenstraat (Source: hansmes.com)
bullying at school, asylum seekers in detention centres - these are just a few examples that explain the meaning of "vogelvrij'.
WINKELHAAK (SQUARE) a triangle made of brick,
on
which
the
contours of a classic model square of polished brass are placed. The square is one of the symbols of the Freemasons. The placement of this Masonic symbol outwardly
clarifies
purpose of the building.
Worstelaars, freestanding bluestone sculpture, Hans Mer (1979), h 0.65 m (excl. socle), Wilgenpad (Source: hansmer.com)
14
the
WORSTELAARS (WRESTLERS) -
The artist's ideas are woven into the city, its
a Gordian knot of two Japanese Sumo
stories, infrastructure and inhabitants, and at
wrestlers placed at a sports hall in the Selwerd
the same time each piece brings with it its own
district of Groningen. Hans Mes created
meanings
Wrestlers during the last year of his studies at
Dreckschnabel is different. I like that he is not
Minerva Art Academy. Mes offered the
attached to anything, exists on its own, his
sculpture on lease to the municipality of
story is unique and started here in Groningen,
Groningen, who then wanted to buy it. Despite
the creature became part of the city and many
opposition from the Minerva Art Academy,
people like me have met him and shared
which thought it could claim copyright,
memories with him over the years.
and
significances.
But
Wrestlers was bought by the municipality one day after Mes graduated. TRAVELLING An interesting peculiarity of Hans's work is that despite a single recognisable style, the
Something in me has its own way
technique of execution varies from work to
I follow travelling
work,
expressing
its
character,
so
With characters in form and colour
Dreckschnabel is sharp and lanky, as if
I create words from resonance
growing out of the ground, it looks like a
Writing my story
sketch, figurative and not fully defined, he
I follow the silent way of images
wraps himself in a coat or wings, MAN IN
However fixed my ideas are moving
LIGSTOEL looks like bare bones covered
and sketch their way
with clothes, hunched, dried up and lifeless,
along unseen places
WORSTELAARS
is
a
heavy,
smooth,
boulder-like figure, and VOGELVRIJ, on the contrary, looks as if a gust of wind would be enough to fly away.
Veronika Shevchenko
16
Hans Mes
17
INTERVIEW Talk with Dr. Leo Delfgaauw Dr. L.H.M.P. (Leo) Delfgaauw is a lecturer at
Therefore, I decided to pursue art history, which
the University of Groningen with expertise in
was a combination of archaeology and art. After
modern and contemporary art, whose courses
the first half of my studies, I decided to switch
are certainly special for every student. In this
to contemporary art as I found it more
interview he talks about his career and outlook
appealing.
on the arts.
How do you think growing up during the "pop revolution" influenced your approach to art?
Why did you choose to pursue a career in arts? Why did you choose the field of contemporary art?
Yeah, that's a great question. I think about it
When I was a child, I had the opportunity to
myself. You know, I was probably too young
visit museums occasionally as I lived in
during the 60s. I lived in Amsterdam and was
Amsterdam where there were plenty of
the youngest in my family. There were a lot of
museums. Initially, I didn't know much about it
things going on during that time, such as the
but I found it intriguing and enjoyed being
hippie movement, pop music, and everything
there. I also noticed that some of my parent's
that was forbidden, which made it especially
friends and people I met while visiting were
exciting. I was fascinated and influenced by the
surprised and intrigued by what they saw, which
events that happened around us. In that sense, I
sparked my interest further. When I was in high school,
I
thought
about
becoming
am definitely influenced by the 60s and the pop
an
revolution.
archaeologist because I found the idea of
Of
course,
music
played
a
significant role in this as well. As a kid growing
discovering things and finding treasures very
up, I enjoyed popular music and later on, I
romantic. However, I soon realised that my
attended concerts of different genres. I
interest lay more in modern and contemporary
remember when I was very young, we lived on
art, which I found more interesting and offered
one of the canals, where the Beatles stayed for
new opportunities to meet and talk to people.
a while during their visit to Amsterdam. I saw 18
them passing by, and it was a decisive moment
If you were an artist, what disciplines would you choose?
for me. It's always a nice anecdote to tell people because it was a unique and exciting experience.
Oh, that's very speculative because when you don't make anything, you don't know what you
What fascinates you most about the artist persona?
would perhaps want to make. I really don't know. I think maybe the fundamental things like drawing. I always appreciate beautiful
I've always been fascinated by the people who
drawing, and I'm jealous when I see somebody
create art - paintings, drawings or any other
with the talent and skill to make a sketch or
form. Their skill and creativity in making
drawing out of the blue. So, maybe that is
beautiful things always intrigue me. I wonder
something that I would like to start with. But I
where their curiosity and creativity come from.
don't think it will happen.
Whenever I visit an artist's studio, see their work or attend an exhibition, I'm always
What is the role of the artist in today’s world?
impressed and fascinated by their way of viewing the world. Despite this, I still don't know how they do it.
The role of art in today's world is a crucial one, as it provides us with a much-needed sense of
Do you consider yourself an artist?
hope and comfort in the face of the many challenges that we are facing in our world today. Art, in its many forms, allows us to
No, not at all. I'm not an artist myself. I'm too
explore and communicate our thoughts and
clumsy. Of course, like every kid, I like to make
feelings about the world around us in a way that
drawings and things like that. But quite soon, I
is both creative and unique. Artists, with their
realised that I was much more curious about the
ability to see the world in a different light, and
work of others than actually making things
to express their views through their art, often
myself. I wanted to read about it, know about it,
provide us with insights that we might not have
and see it. But I never felt the urge to make it
otherwise considered. They offer us a different
myself. So, I don't make anything.
perspective on the world and help us to understand it in a new way. The creative act of writing, making music, painting, sculpting, or any other form of artistic expression, is now more important than ever. Art allows us to connect with others, to express ourselves, and to make sense of the world around us. Though 19
the world has changed considerably since the
turned out to be a nice story to tell. Most of my
artist's earlier days, the appreciation for art
memories
remains the same. While the artist may have
encounters I had with artists and the stories we
become more informed and solid in their
shared. There are probably many more stories,
approach, their fascination and curiosity for
but maybe I should share them with you later.
are
pleasant,
especially
the
what is being made remain undiminished. In short, art plays a vital role in enriching our lives
Do you have any advice for the next generation of art professionals?
and providing us with a much-needed source of inspiration and comfort in a world that can often seem uncertain and chaotic.
Do you have any great stories from your professional life?
As a teacher, I often find it challenging to inspire my students to pursue their dreams. However, I do believe that studying a field you
Starting my professional life was not easy, I had
are passionate about is a beautiful thing, but it
to do different things in various functions and
does not come with a guarantee of success.
different places. However, I was lucky enough
Luck plays a part, but being proactive and
to meet a lot of people and have many beautiful
finding opportunities to develop your skills is
moments and stories. Once, I worked as a
just as important. Building a professional
curator and had to transport a work of art from
network through visiting places, meeting
a museum to New York for an exhibition. I had
people, and taking the initiative is crucial to
to make sure that everything was safe and
your career growth. Although it may sound like
secure during the transport and installation
management talk, it is a reality, and you should
process. Accompanied by official documents, I
not be naive about it. Continuing to learn and
arrived in New York late in the evening with the
developing your expertise, skills, and frame of
artwork. It was snowy, cold, and I was tired.
reference is also essential for professional
When we reached the gallery, the entrance door
growth. Staying active in studying, reading,
was not big enough, and the artwork couldn't fit
visiting places, and writing is important.
in the gallery space. I was stranded with the big
Writing is an integral part of reflecting on your
crate in New York, and it was terrible. There
thoughts and ideas. It allows you to organise
was no immediate solution, and I had to wait
your thoughts and think out loud, helping you
until someone else came with the keys to
to communicate your ideas effectively. Being
another place. After several hours of waiting,
precise in your writing and finding the right
the artwork was finally transported to the right
vocabulary is key in conveying your message to
place, but it was already 5 or 6 in the morning,
your audience. Pursuing your passion and
and I was completely devastated. Although it
building your professional network, continuing
was a terrible experience at the moment, it 20
to learn, and developing your skills are all
and recognise that your opinion is not the only
crucial to your professional growth. So, keep
one that matters.
pushing yourself to try new things, take the initiative, and never stop learning.
What art pieces or artworks describe you the best? How do you drink your coffee?
When assessing the quality of something, it can be challenging to use terms like "the best" or "less good." It all depends on your criteria and
I'd love a cappuccino in the morning and an
perspective. My judgement on things has
espresso in the evening.
changed over time. Some things that I was crazy about when I was younger don't interest
What today's artist do you think will be well known even centuries from now?
me as much anymore, while other things that I didn't consider or like as much before I find very intriguing now. It's not an absolute judgement but something that changes over
When it comes to predicting the future, I must
time. The things that I find difficult to
admit that I am not a fortune-teller or a wizard.
understand are the most intriguing and
There are so many surprises in life that it's
important because they are the works that
impossible to foresee everything. But that's
surprise me, challenge me to think, and make
perfectly fine. In the art world, some artists who
me question my understanding. It's like with
were once considered important and influential
music or literature; when you read a book or
are now completely forgotten, while others who
listen to a complicated piece of music, you have
were overlooked have suddenly become very
to make an effort to understand it, and that's
relevant and influential. So, predicting who the
what makes it interesting. Sometimes, an
next Vincent van Gogh will be is not my main
artwork may seem unappealing or confusing at
task, and I honestly have no idea. Of course,
first, but after looking at it more closely, I
people sometimes ask me to make predictions,
become completely fascinated by it. It's
but what's more important than predictions is
important to make an effort and engage with art,
having clear criteria for appreciating and judging
artwork.
Regarding
literature, and music, even if it's challenging
quality,
because that's where we often find the most
importance, and aesthetics, it's essential to be
rewarding experiences. Best in in terms of
clear about your criteria. However, it's also
quality and in terms of comparison I find it very
important to remember that your criteria are
difficult to to use these terms as the best or less
influenced by your perspective, which is just a
good or whatever it all depends again on your
moment in time. So, it's crucial to be modest
criteria I have to think about it I don't know 21
where you know no I when I try to think of my
How does ageing affect an artist, is it truly a lifetime of learning?
own judgment on hard works I also must admit that it has changed over time so some of the things that are really was crazy about when I was much younger I don't find them that
It's fascinating to think about the ageing process
interesting anymore while other things that I
and what it means for artists. It's great to see
didn't really consider or like so much I find
that you're interested in the topic of ageing,
them very intriguing now so it's it's not like a an
especially as it relates to the world of art and my
absolute judgment it's something that changes
field of research. It's an intriguing subject, as
and then again you have to think about your
artists often face unique challenges and
criteria why is it that I like something or I think
opportunities as they grow older. One of the
overall the things that I find difficult to
most exciting aspects of ageing for artists is
understand in the end they are the most
how it affects their perspective on the world. As
intriguing the most important because those are
we become older, we gain new experiences,
the works that surprise you those are the works
insights, and perspectives, which can be
that challenge you to think about because you
invaluable when it comes to creating art. Many
don't really know what it is all about and you
artists find that their work becomes more
have to you have to make an effort when it is
complex and nuanced as they grow older, as
let's say too easy it becomes at least there is a
they are able to draw on a lifetime of
risk of becoming boring we have to make an
experiences and emotions. At the same time,
effort like with music again or like with
ageing can bring its own challenges. As our
literature when you read a book and it's really complicated,
Oh
my
goodness
I
bodies and minds change, it can become more
don't
difficult to create art with the same energy and
understand a word of it I have to read it a second
intensity as we did when we were younger.
time and then slowly perhaps you can relate
Some artists find that they are able to adapt and
yourself to this literature or texture and the
find new ways of working, while others
same with an artwork some of the artworks are
struggle to maintain the same level of creativity
with that I think more. Yet there are works I
and productivity. Ultimately, the impact of
don't know what to think of, it's crazy it looks
ageing on artists can vary widely depending on
terrible or whatever but then later on yeah I'm
the individual. Some artists may find that their
completely fascinated by.
work becomes more vibrant and meaningful as they age, while others may struggle to maintain the same level of inspiration and creativity. Regardless of the challenges they face, however, many artists agree that learning and growth is an essential part of their practice. By 22
continuing to develop new techniques, explore
What are your most important core values?
new ideas, and refine their skills, artists can continue to create meaningful and impactful work throughout their lives. While there is often
Art and life are not separate fields; they are very
a strong emphasis on supporting and promoting
much related. That's why artists are beautiful
young, promising artists, it's also worth
and so important because they are part of life.
considering what happens to artists as they
For me personally, artists give hope, which is
grow older. While there isn't a universally
something we need in life, especially with all
applicable formula for how an artist's work
the terrible things going on. A core value should
changes over time, there are some exciting
be to stay curious about things we don't know. I
patterns and observations to consider. For
don't want to sound preachy, but I think that is
example, some artists produce their most
maybe a core value for all of us. Many of the
compelling work in their later years, while
problems in the world or in our private lives are
others peak early in their careers. Additionally,
related to not understanding another person or
ageing can bring about changes in an artist's
not accepting something different. This is how
creative process, either due to physical
we divide people. We don't like them because
limitations or simply because of shifts in
they behave stupidly, have a different colour, or
perspective and life experience. Despite these
have red hair. It can be anything. We realise that
differences, one common thread among many
it is completely stupid, but we must be
artists is the importance of ongoing learning
constantly reminded not to judge. Of course, I
and growth. Exploring new ideas, refining
do the same, but I try to realise that art is very
techniques, and expanding one's skills is an
helpful. Something that I don't understand can
essential part of any artistic practice, regardless
be, in the end, so beautiful, nice, and essential,
of age. When it comes to Picasso he's a
and it enriches me. That is a core value. It's the
particularly fascinating example of an artist
only one I have. I don't have any other core
who continued to evolve and experiment
values.
throughout his life. While his early work is undoubtedly iconic, his later work also
What is your favourite hobby?
showcases a remarkable depth and complexity that reflects his years of experience and experimentation.
I don't have many hobbies, which sounds boring, but I'm very much involved with art in many ways. This includes my professional life, such as teaching, giving interviews, and more. My hobbies include seeing exhibitions, visiting museums, and reading about art. Lately, I have 23
been reading quite a lot about history, not
Budapest synagogue, which is also quite
specifically about art, but history in general. I
beautiful.
find it very interesting. Reading is a sort of hobby. Besides that, I have a garden, a part of
What is your comfort food after a long day?
my private life. One of my hobbies is collecting artist books - books, publications, magazines, leaflets, or anything made by artists. It's kind of
Oh, my goodness, chicken soup! Of course,
funny to collect them. This is a little bit difficult
self-made. That's the best.
nowadays because of the internet. Nowadays, everything is online, so you can easily find everything, but then you have to pay full price,
Barnabás Áron Somogyi
which I don't want to do. It used to be fun to go to second-hand bookshops or to the flea market and discover something nice. Maybe this relates to my childhood idea of becoming an archaeologist, digging somewhere, and finding a treasure. In some spare moments, I like to watch Judo on YouTube because it was my sport when I was young, and I still enjoy seeing it. As an art historian, you don't need it, but sometimes as a teacher, it can be useful...
What is your favourite church? One of my favourite churches is a small chapel in Germany called Cappella Di San Nicolao. It was built by Swiss architect Peter Zumthor and is located in the countryside, making it a very peaceful and serene place to visit. The chapel can only accommodate a few people, typically no more than two or three at a time. Despite being a religious site, it's not overly imposing and has a calming atmosphere. It's one of my favourite places to go for spiritual contemplation. Another favourite of mine is the
24
MONTHLY TASTE OF THE ARTS “Bunny” by Mona Awad other “bunny” invites her for “Smut Salon” their weekly meeting. Samantha has no idea what thing she will be part of and how others view creating literature. What grasps the reader from the first chapter is sharp, intelligent language narrating the novel. The author perfectly captured the academic environment and artistic, small world. Main character is very interesting to follow. All her actions, imperfect personality and flaws that lead her to so many weird situations make her a greatly written person. But what I loved the most in this novel, is passion for creating no matter what and how, love for art and literature that is almost dangerous and unhealthy.
Bunny Cover (Source: media-amazon.com)
Unreliable narrator and morbid scenes like from
December is definitely a month perfect for
horror movies, make readers question how real
cosy books and even though “spooky season”
the story actually is and what do we know
and Halloween are over, I view the first month
actually about Samantha.
of the winter as cold, and slightly creepy in its nature.
Mona Awad put together elements of horror, fairy tale and satire creating perfect, sugar
That is why I think Bunny by Mona Awad, will
coated and creepy, but incredibly enjoyable
be a perfect read for the season with colder days
novel. Bunny is certainly a weird book and after
and nights, constant rain and cloudy sky.
finishing the last page it will leave you with Samantha is an outsider attending a selective
many questions and no answers for them. If you
programme at Warren University. She does a
can call yourself passionate about art, odd
writing course and tries to overcome many
themes and twisted, surrealistic stories, you
struggles stopping her from becoming a
should really try picking Bunny and I am sure
successful author. Everything changes, when a
you will not regret it.
strange group of doll-looking girls calling each 25
“Eyes wide shut” by Stanley Kubrick morning,
but
atmospheric
and
thought
provoking. „Eyes wide shut” is Stanley Kubrick's movie about loss, desire and deep emotions. It tells a story of William Harford - a doctor who in a brutal way realises his wife is having some fantasies and he is not the only man she desires. Being struck by this fact, he decides to search for sexual encounters and becomes obsessed with that idea. He does not realise where that can lead him to. The film touches humans' most hidden emotions and thoughts. It perfectly connects the idea of secret societies arising from deepest desires and cult-like ideas with weakness,
Eyes wide shut (Source: media.s-bol.com)
insecurities and obsessive thoughts. The plot of
As I mentioned, December is obviously a
the film happens during the winter time in New
month perfect for spooky art, but also a time
York, which creates an atmospheric, unique
when everyone craves a good winter film. As
vibe.
much as we love cliche and cosy Christmas movies, sometimes we might be overwhelmed
What I loved about this film the most, was the
by that genre and look for something less
great way of portraying an individual in a
traditional. And here I can recommend to you
relationship, but also in a larger group of
one of my favourite winter movies, certainly
people. All emotions that are tried to be hidden
not a one to watch with family on Christmas
and
fears
of
regular
doctors
meeting
questionable society are shown very clearly which makes it easier to relate to him and sympathise with his feelings.
Anastazja Twarowska
26
Artsy Minds Sunflower seeds We’re all entities lost in a field of copies Our souls are strangled And our voices are muted He was born as a mass-produced, commercially available, and utilitarian object, An object that was given a name, put into a piece of cloth, and designated a Father. His tombstone read: “R. Mutt –” followed by the year of death. She was raised as one in a million, one piece scattered through a million of sunflower seeds arranged in a continuous rectangular grid upon which the Sun never falls An industrially produced, individually handcrafted piece of ceramic that was put into a shell, assigned a home, and called a Mother. And I – I was the childless child of these pre-fabricated items. Born with a heart of marble. A soldier of the terra-cotta army, one of the many collections of sculptures held in the imperial treasury living among the warriors, chariots, and the horses, and buried together with the officials, acrobats, and musicians.
Lia Calancea, Art History student, 2nd year, Museum Committee member 27
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