Figuren op straat 1875 - 1934

Editor: This is "Figuren op straat" by Isaac Israels, made sometime between 1875 and 1934, and it's currently housed at the Rijksmuseum. It's a pencil drawing, and I find the sketch-like quality gives it an almost dreamlike atmosphere. How do you interpret this work? Curator: It is interesting to note how the artist manipulates value in this drawing. Consider the tonal gradations achieved with pencil; from the heavily worked darks, we perceive form emerging. Look, for instance, at the way the undefined strokes imply human figures in the middle ground, drawing your eye from left to right. Does the limited range in tonality emphasize something for you? Editor: I guess it helps flatten the perspective? It all feels a little compressed and hazy. Curator: Precisely. The lack of strong contrast denies any depth of field and creates a somewhat ambiguous composition, doesn’t it? There's an immediacy because the artist captured this view en plein air; note how quick gestural marks make up each form. In your opinion, do you think the hazy treatment lends to the Impressionistic style? Editor: I do see that. The impressionistic style lends to an atmosphere rather than detailing. The overall effect makes it more about a feeling. It's very transportive! Thank you. Curator: It's been enlightening to discuss its form with you; by deconstructing the image to analyze how its elements interplay and what effects it might give, our perspectives converge in shared understanding.