The “Golden Age” of Dutch painting, the 1600s, produced such masters as Johannes Vermeer and Netherlands' greatest artist, Rembrandt Van Rijn. Later, in the 1800s, Vincent Van Gogh painted more than 800 oils. All three captured on canvas ordinary people and everyday life, as well as other art subjects. Their lives were filled with difficulties, complication in love, and always a passion for their artistic work. This fall book series presents a historical fiction of each of these giants in the art world. Lear much of the artist’s life, wrapped in a fictional story. Then enjoy a little research of your own concerning the man and his art. Come ready to share your insights.
We will savor a good book and learn much, together, of Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh!
Retired English Teacher, Southwood High School
Thursday, September 18, 7:00 p.m.
Only thirty-five paintings are attributed to Dutch artist Vermeer. Perhaps the most famous is “Girl with a Pear Earring,” nicknamed the “Mona Lisa of the North.” Read Tracy Chevalier’s historical fiction to learn of this famous artist and a creative idea of how this painting might have come about. This New York Times bestseller will take you to 17th century Delft, Netherlands as you follow the intertwined lives of sixteen-year-old Griet and Johannes Vermeer.
(If you have already read this famous book, briefly review and come to the discussion!)
Thursday, October 16, 7:00 p.m.
Love blooms when the Dutch artist Vincent Van Gogh come to live in Auvers, France. Van Gogh looks into the soul of twenty-year-old Marguerite and must paint her. But Dr. Gachet refuses to give up control of his daughter - and his patient. The eccentric Van Gogh often produced a self-portrait, and this historical fiction by Alyson Richman paints another picture of the mysterious, prolific, and gifted Van Gogh. You will also learn the secrets lurking in the Gachet household. If you like, study the famous Van Gogh paintings as described in Richman’s book.
Thursday, November 20, 7:00 p.m.
Young Cornelia’s father is the brilliant, complicated, and the greatest artist of the Netherlands, Rembrandt. Based on historical fact, I Am Rembrandt’s Daughter will take you to Amsterdam during the plague of the 1600s. Follow family drama, a love triangle, and, of course, the life of this very famous artist. Chapters alternate with flashbacks to Cornelia’s childhood, helping explain her present day challenges. Once again, here is a coming-of-age heroine that wins the reader’s heart. For paintings referred to in this historical fiction, go to Paintings from the book and even more Paintings
Books will be available for purchase at the main circulation counter, and a limited number of books are available for check-out.
Pre-registration is required. You may register at the circulation counter or by calling the library at 260-563-2972.
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