Studie 1892 - 1901

This sketchbook page was made by Antoon Derkinderen sometime in the late 19th or early 20th century, using graphite on paper. Notice the immediacy and the economy of means. It’s just a soft pencil, dragged across the surface to quickly capture ideas. The visible process is central to understanding this image. The smudged graphite and handwritten notes provide a direct insight into the artist’s working methods, a record of his thought processes. The lists of place names and sketches are probably early notations for a larger project, allowing us to follow the artist’s journey from initial concept to finished artwork. The lack of any formal technique, esoteric or high-tech material allows us to better understand the artist's approach and the social context of artistic creation at the time. Ultimately, this simple artifact invites us to think about the nature of creativity itself – not as a grand gesture, but as a process of continual investigation. By looking closely at these materials and methods, we can challenge the traditional distinction between fine art and craft, appreciating the value of everyday creative practices.