View from the Apartment in the Rue Lepic 1887

Vincent van Gogh created this drawing of the view from his apartment in the Rue Lepic using reed pen and ink. The choice of reed pen is important here. Unlike a metal nib, the reed resists fine detail. Look closely and you’ll see the many small strokes of ink, laid down with tremendous energy and precision. The artist has used these to create a rich tapestry of texture and tone. We can feel the density of the buildings and the slight haziness of the Parisian sky. The drawing hints at the labor involved in city construction, as well as Van Gogh's own labor as an artist, intensely observing and recording his surroundings. The social context of urban life is palpable, and the choice of materials underscores the artist’s direct, almost visceral, connection to his subject. This viewpoint allows us to appreciate the depth and complexity that can be achieved through close attention to materials and the act of making.