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1971 documentary on M.C. Escher resurfaces online

publication · 2026-05-05

A 1971 documentary on M.C. Escher, directed by Han Van Gelder, has been shared online. The film features photographs, video clips, statements by the artist, and a minimalist dissonant score by Felix Visser. The first half surveys Escher's most famous works, while the second half shows the artist at work in his Laren studio during his final years. Produced by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the documentary was part of the Living Art The Netherlands program promoting Dutch arts.

Key facts

  • Documentary directed by Han Van Gelder in 1971
  • Features Escher's works and the artist in his studio
  • Music composed by Felix Visser
  • Produced by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs
  • Part of the Living Art The Netherlands program
  • Escher lived from 1898 to 1972
  • Escher was known for impossible objects and mathematical illusions
  • The film was shot in Laren, Netherlands

Entities

Artists

  • M.C. Escher
  • Han Van Gelder
  • Felix Visser

Institutions

  • Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs
  • Living Art The Netherlands

Locations

  • Leeuwarden
  • Laren
  • Netherlands
  • Olanda

Sources