Slow Museum Saturdays #4 | Through the Golden Glare

Hello dear museum lovers! I am happy to invite you all to the fourth installment of Slow Museum Saturdays.
I look at SMS now as an evolving experience with a focus on appreciating beauty in a mindful and social way. The format so far is that a small group of us come and gawk at art for a long time. And I am very happy that people actually enjoy this experience.
The thing about museums is that they have a lot going on and to be perfectly honest I find the task of experiencing it all in one go very daunting. We relinquish that pressure on our walk throughs— taking in and cherishing what we can.
It is always lovely to be humbled by new experiences and perspectives while doing this together. I look forward to seeing you again this Saturday.

🌍 Location:
The Dordrechts Museum, founded in 1842, is one of the oldest art museums in the Netherlands and is located in the historic city of Dordrecht. Renowned for its rich collection spanning six centuries, the museum showcases masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age, 19th-century Romanticism, Hague School, and modern and contemporary art. Situated in a former insane asylum, the museum combines historical charm with modern facilities, offering visitors a unique cultural experience amidst beautifully curated exhibitions and tranquil gardens

📅 Agenda

• 2:00 PM – 2:30 PM: Meet & Introduction
• 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM: Slow Looking Session
• 3:30 PM – 4:00 PM: Group discussion
• 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Socialize

Let’s gather at the museum café located at the left wing of the building.

🎨 Selected Artworks

In the Surf by Hendrik Willem Mesdag
This painting is a prime example of Mesdag's focus on seascapes, particularly the North Sea and Scheveningen beaches. Known for his realistic depiction of fisherfolk and maritime scenes, Mesdag captured the atmosphere and mood of daily life at sea. "In the Surf" reflects his mastery in rendering light and movement, showcasing his dedication to portraying the sea's dynamic nature.

Winter Morning at Lahn by Johannes Warnardus Bilders
This artwork, titled *Wintermorgen am Lahn*, exemplifies Bilders' romantic landscape style. Bilders often painted serene natural scenes with attention to light and atmosphere.

Italianate Landscape by Jacob van Strij
Jacob van Strij specialized in landscapes inspired by 17th-century Dutch Golden Age painters like Aelbert Cuyp. His Italianate works often featured golden light, hills, and ruins, despite never visiting Italy himself. This painting showcases meticulous details in both nature and human elements, reflecting his admiration for Cuyp's style.

Italian Landscape with the Ponte Molle by Jan Both
This monumental late masterpiece by Jan Both depicts the famous Ponte Molle bridge in Rome. Both was part of the Italianate movement, inspired by Italy's sunny landscapes and art. The painting features dramatic lighting effects (contre-jour) and intricate details, such as figures and carriages on the bridge. It is considered one of Both's finest works.

The Last Supper by Willem Key
This Renaissance oil painting portrays the biblical scene of Jesus' Last Supper with his disciples. Willem Key included a self-portrait and a likeness of Dirk van Nuyssenborgh among the apostles. The work is notable for its detailed composition and use of vibrant colors. Since 1975, it has been part of the Dordrechts Museum collection.

Lot 937 by Frank Myers Boggs
Frank Myers Boggs was known for his marine landscapes and cityscapes influenced by Impressionism. Boggs frequently depicted urban scenes with dynamic brushwork, often inspired by his surroundings in Paris or other European cities.

📢 Stay Connected

• Follow us on Instagram for updates and reflections.
• Join our WhatsApp Group for the latest news and discussions.

⚠️ Additional Information:

• This is a structured experience and differs from a typical museum visit.
• Kindly ensure you’ve purchased your museum ticket in advance for the 2:00 PM start time.
• The event is designed for smaller groups due to limited space in front of some pieces.
• Feel free to take personal notes and share observations during our group discussions.