Studieblad met Zeedistel, Hop en Clematis Possibly 1899

Julie de Graag made this drawing, ‘Studieblad met Zeedistel, Hop en Clematis’, with pencil and chalk sometime before her death in 1924. De Graag worked during a period when women artists were gaining more recognition, yet still faced considerable obstacles. She was deeply involved in nature, which is demonstrated in this drawing. Her choice to depict plants like sea thistle, hop, and clematis reflects an interest in the natural world. These plants, each with their unique textures and forms, showcase De Graag's attention to detail and her ability to capture the subtle beauty of her subjects. There is a softness in her botanical studies which feels intimate, reflective. In this work, one gets the sense of De Graag spending time in observation and contemplation of these plants and how they may have been seen in relation to women's lives and experiences. Her art offers a unique perspective on the representation of women, while highlighting her connection to nature and art.