Zonnebloemen c. 1944 - 1990

Kees Stoop made this print, titled 'Zonnebloemen', using etching, a printmaking technique dating back to the Middle Ages. The image is created by biting lines into a metal plate with acid, then inking and pressing the plate onto paper. The fine, intricate lines you see are the result of this process. The appeal of etching lies in its ability to capture detail and texture, as evidenced by the delicate rendering of the sunflowers. The dense composition and attention to minute detail suggest a deep engagement with the subject matter. The labour-intensive process, requiring skilled craftsmanship, contrasts with the mass-produced images we often see today. Considering the time and effort involved in creating this print, we can appreciate the artist's dedication to their craft and their ability to transform common materials into a work of art. This challenges the traditional hierarchy between fine art and craft, highlighting the value of skilled making.