Rotterdam-based writer Anna Blaman (1905-1960) serves as the engine of this visual and literary project, moving forward questions, conversations and correspondences about feminism, the position of women in the literary canon, being different, loneliness and friendship.

An important theme in Anna Blaman’s work is the question whether we can ever really know one another. The characters in her novels are often alone and long for someone, who always remains out of reach.

By immersing herself in Blamans life and work, Katinka van Gorkum wants to explore the writer as a character for her own novel. Through Anna's eyes, she wants to frame the experiences of the other protagonist, a young female writer living in Rotterdam, and share a different, historical perspective.

Collected images and texts slowly began to form the character’s virtual bedroom, making way for new storylines. You are kindly invited to enter into these stories and rooms at an other world project space.

Kamer I – Oesters / Publication (Dutch)

Kamer I – Oesters / Chamber I - Oysters is a short story in which Katinka explores Anna’s room through the work of other writers, by whispering their words into the cracks of her walls whilst trying to seduce Anna. The publication is made in collaboration with graphic designer Janne Beldman and editor Inge Marleen.

Kamer II – Papieren Chaos / Installation

Kamer II - Papieren chaos / Chamber II - Paper Chaos consists of a work created for the windows of the project space, showing glimpses of Anna’s love letters to Marie-Louise Doudart de la Grée, and inside the space a video installation offers a tour of Anna’s virtual room.

Saturday - 2/7/2022 - 14:00 – 18:00 + talk about the project at 15:00 (in English)

Sunday - 3/7/22 – 12:00 – 16:00

During both days Katinka van Gorkum will be present to talk about the project.