This exhibition pays tribute to five artists, including Julius Klinger and Samuel L. Schwarz, two influential designers who in 2026 were born exactly 150 years ago. In addition, the exhibition turns its focus to the work of Fré Cohen, Stefan Schlesinger and Meijer Bleekrode. As with many of their contemporaries, their careers and lives were overshadowed by the tragic events of the Second World War. But these five did not live to see the liberation. This makes it all the more important to keep the flame of recognition and interest burning.

Julius Klinger (1876–1942) was an Austrian artist best known for his illustrations for critical books and magazines. His works display a humorous approach and originality. Starting in the Art Nouveau period, he developed into a pioneer of the modernism of the later Bauhaus. A true pioneer who was held in high regard both nationally and internationally.

Samuel L. (Mommie) Schwarz (1876–1942) was a Dutch painter and graphic artist. Together with his wife Else Berg, they formed an artist couple; both are associated with the Bergen School. This artistic movement can be seen in the somewhat cubist posters that Schwarz designed. In 1926, De Telegraaf wrote about Schwarz’s posters: they ‘generally belong to the best of what truly demands attention on advertising columns and billboards’.

Posters with an additional layer
At first glance, the designs seem detached from the heavy history of their makers. They seduce, inform and surprise with color, form and typography. Only later, in some works, does a more political or socially critical tone become visible. This gives the posters an additional layer of meaning. The later war with the persecution of Jews casts its shadow forward in these posters.

Visit
The exhibition can be seen from March through June at Design Museum Dedel, Prinsegracht 15, The Hague. The volunteers present will be happy to tell you more about it.