Haarlem Impressionists and Realists
Revolution! The 20th century was a time of enormous artistic innovation, with all kinds of different experiments to give art new impetus. Not everyone, however, was impressed by this urge for innovation. Despite knowledge of new opinions, trends and styles and a few experiments here and there, many artists remained true to the ‘pure’ realism and impressionism of the late 19th century. This is wonderfully illustrated by the wealth of Haarlem painting in the twentieth century, with such artists as Henri Boot, Coba Ritsema, Kees Verwey, Jacobus van Looy and Jaap Ploos van Amstel. For surely art may simply be beautiful too? Expect to see an exhibition in which beauty takes centre stage.
Witte poes in een open raam- Jacobus van Looy, c. 1895, olieverf op doek, collectie Frans Hals Museum