Dreaming in the Dunes

The exhibition highlights the remarkable, still under-appreciated oeuvre of artist Bernard Essers (1893-1945). His graphic work from the first half of the twentieth century – including book illustrations for renowned authors such as Arthur van Schendel (1874-1946) and Adriaan Roland Holst (1888-1976) – demonstrates a unique style that combines symbolism and graphic refinement.

The exhibition offers a renewed appreciation for the work of this idiosyncratic artist, whose printmaking is both technically and artistically beautiful. He settled in Bergen in 1920, where he worked among the artists of the Bergen School and where he would remain until the Second World War. Essers’ work will be flanked by the graphic work of several contemporaries, including that of Jan Toorop.

Cover image: Opening of the exhibition Dreaming in the Dunes – Bernard Essers, Museum Kranenburgh | photo: Maarten Nauw