Socially Concerned
Jakob Smits has always been attentive to the needs of the 'common man' in Mol-Achterbos. When people were in need of money or faced other problems, they knew where to find him.
He also took on responsibility during the First World War. He set aside his easel, washed his brushes, and closed his studio. Smits became the chairman of the cantonal food committee, through which he supported the local population by helping to provide food for the region.
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Back to Work
Towards the end of the war, Jakob Smits took up his brushes once again. The horrors of the war left a deep impression on him and would haunt him for a long time. The result of this can be seen in paintings such as Love One Another (JSM), the Trenches (KMSK Antwerp), and the Guard (JSM).
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