From Left to Right

Why is it that within an art movement one artist falls into oblivion, while another becomes an icon? Museum Arnhem, known for its collection of neo-realism featuring artists such as Dick Ket, Carel Willink and Pyke Koch, explores this question. The exhibition From Left to Right (May 13-November 20, 2022) offers an innovative look at a century of neo-realism and highlights the impact of political tensions in the interwar era. The economic crisis of 1929 and the rise of Hitler in 1933 had a profound effect on artists in the Netherlands, both in their work and in their personal lives and careers, against the backdrop of increasing social polarization.
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Graphic Design
Dana Dijkgraaf
Exhibition design
Paul Toornend
Exhibition building
Studio met met
Text production
Promosign
Exhibition photography
Eva Broekema

Concept
This climate of political division led to socially engaged and activist artists being ignored in art history for a long time. In From Left to Right, Museum Arnhem presents a more inclusive picture of the interwar period than ever before. Rediscovered progressive artists such as Berthe Edersheim, Harmen Meurs and Nola Hatterman, who were previously overlooked, are juxtaposed in this exhibition with well-known names such as Carel Willink, Raoul Hynckes and Pyke Koch.

What did we create?
Inspired by the theme of political polarization, we developed a graphic design that visually reflects these contradictions. We used typography reminiscent of the bold newspaper headlines and activist signs of the time-important communication tools in this politically charged period. The title of the exhibition is literally split in two to emphasize the contrast between the different groups of artists. Smaller texts in the exhibition have torn edges and printer’s marks, subtly referencing newspapers and the title of the exhibition itself. This approach fits closely with the content of the artworks, as neo-realism often draws inspiration from everyday life. And what is more mundane than the news?

Sparkles
The exhibition design won a Bronze European Design Award 2023. Political polarization is also reflected in the spatial design, especially in the second exhibition space, where one side is painted purple and the other orange. The first space shows works from before this turbulent period and contains only minor color accents on the walls to indicate that polarization was imminent. The purple walls are spray-painted for a rough, authentic effect. The exhibition colors chosen -purple and orange- were inspired by a 1944 political poster designed by artist Arend Meijer. This thoughtful design enhances the narrative and invites visitors to delve into the historical context of the exhibited works.

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