Pen Meets Paint: 200 Years Mauritshuis, 200 Writers, 200 Paintings

200 writers were asked to draw inspiration from the Mauritshuis collection for its bicentenary, resulting in a remarkable book with contributions from Isabel Allende, Margaret Atwood, and many others. The authors were allowed to decide what to write, resulting in stories, poems, short reflections, drawings, and even a recipe.

Format: Hardback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 12 June 2024
Publisher: Uitgeverij de Kunst

When two art forms, the literary and the visual arts, come together, a fascinating synergy emerges. To commemorate its bicentenary, the Mauritshuis invited 200 writers to draw inspiration from its extensive collection. This remarkable collaboration brought together the crème de la crème of today's literary community, both from within and beyond borders. Each writer was given the opportunity to choose a single work of art from the Mauritshuis as the focal point for their 200-word contribution, a unique format that had never been attempted before. The result is a captivating anthology that showcases the diverse voices and artistic perspectives of these esteemed authors.

Among the contributors to this extraordinary publication are renowned names such as Isabel Allende, Margaret Atwood, Nicci French, Arnon Grunberg, Murat Isik, Hilary Mantel, Cees Nooteboom, Jan Cremer, Connie Palmen, Sholeh Rezazadeh, Simon Schama, and Donna Tartt. Each author approached their writing with their own unique vision, resulting in a diverse range of stories, poems, short reflections, drawings, and even a recipe.

The authors' freedom to choose their subject matter and artistic approach adds an extra layer of depth and richness to the anthology. The stories, poems, and reflections explore themes ranging from historical narratives to personal experiences, offering readers a glimpse into the authors' minds and hearts. The visual artwork, inspired by the chosen pieces, serves as a visual complement, enhancing the literary content and creating a multi-dimensional experience.

This collaboration between the literary and visual arts not only celebrates the Mauritshuis' rich history but also highlights the power of artistic expression to transcend boundaries and inspire creativity. It serves as a testament to the enduring relevance and significance of art in our lives, reminding us of the beauty and complexity that can be found when different art forms collide.

In conclusion, the fusion of the literary and visual arts in the Mauritshuis' bicentenary anthology is a testament to the limitless possibilities that arise when different art forms collaborate. It showcases the talent and creativity of a diverse group of authors and artists, providing a glimpse into the rich tapestry of human expression. This remarkable publication will undoubtedly inspire and captivate readers for years to come.

Weight: 2358g
Dimension: 290 x 240 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789462623811