The Czech Republic (Jedna): I Love Alfons Mucha and His Style

2021-12 We’re sitting in your cozy apartment in the Petrská neighborhood. Please introduce the painter and artist Julien van Middendorp to our readers. It’s hard to put into words. I’m a person with an eye for detail and precision. I like to observe people and watch them. I form my opinions from a distance. I moved to the Czech Republic and I enjoy living here. I’ve become a true Praguer.

Where did you grow up, and what brought you here?

I grew up in a small town in the center of the Netherlands, near Utrecht. Eventually, I moved to The Hague. That’s where I met my wife, who was living in Prague at the time, and eventually I followed her there. But I actually first visited Prague on a school trip back in 1992. At that time, it was still the capital of Czechoslovakia. I came here because I thought I might never get to visit it again in the future. I have to admit that the city has changed a lot since then. It’s busier, more interesting…

Do you like Prague 1? What does it give you, and what might it take away?

I love the center of our capital city. At every turn, you can feel the culture, history, and art… It’s a very inspiring city. What I miss most is not being able to just knock on my parents’ door. Life away from your homeland is always different. You leave something behind, but of course that also brings new possibilities and opportunities. Prague gives me the space to realize my potential, to transform my thoughts and feelings into artistic self-expression.

Who in the Czech art world inspires you?

It might sound like a cliché, but it’s Mucha and Art Nouveau. I really love Mucha’s organic style and his colors. He was and is amazing. No question about it. My parents had a gallery in the Netherlands, which gave me access to various posters and original works. I still remember seeing Mucha’s original works for the first time at an auction. It was a very powerful experience for me. All those organic shapes enclosed in elegant black lines…

What achievement are you most pleased with, and what lies ahead for you?

Right now, I’m very pleased with the Top Contemporary Artists of Today award, which I received for my unique artistic style and high-quality technical execution. My works will be featured in Gold List magazine. I’m pleased that curators are interested in showcasing my work on their platforms. And I’m looking forward to more opportunities.

Author: Text: Michaela Bittner Hochmanová Photo: Petr Našic