Because of course, after a long grey winter period, Island Gallery loves to celebrate the beginning of a lengthy bright spring and summer season! Our living environment is finally regaining more color and fragrance, which is supported by the sprouting of the flowers in ‘our region’ the Bollenstreek and at Keukenhof.
But there is more to EXPO NO.2 – THE ONE WITH THE FLOWERS. With this edition we bring an ode to our world famous Dutch floral heritage, which was germinated already in the 15th century by Countess Jacoba van Beieren. Did you know that because of her, eventually Kasteel Keukenhof was built? Just a few years after the Tulip Mania in 1635. Who would have thought then, that nowadays the export of Dutch flowers and Keukenhof itself is breaking records year after year, even in times of despair? And, that for instance, the small scale yet internationally acclaimed Flower Parade is officially part of our Dutch heritage?
For centuries, flowers have been a great source of inspiration for artists – and probably will always be. Take Botticellli’s ‘La Primavera’ or Van Gogh’s ‘Almond Blossom’ and ‘Sunflowers’. And of course the flower still lives of Jan Davidszoon de Heem, which caused a great revival with regard to our current Dutch Design.
So for all that, from the 1st of April until the end of August, we will bring you flowers!
The flowery ‘La Belle Epoque’ by Gert Kist
The campaign visual of EXPO NO.2 – THE ONE WITH THE FLOWERS was provided by Dutch photographer Gert Kist, who will – during this expo – celebrate his 10-year anniversary as being a successful professional photographer.
La Belle Epoque refers to the flourishing times at the end of the nineteenth century. A beautiful style period of prosperity and tranquility, in which various art forms, amongst photography - but also literature and sciences - blossomed. In addition, posters and cards were printed with images of well-known city- and landscapes, intended as souvenirs for visitors.
During this extraordinary expo, Island Gallery will organize various events related to this theme. Keep yourself updated via the Newsletter (sign up via the website) and social media (follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and/or Instagram).
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