Dansende jongen en meisje in een stadspark of speeltuin 1888 - 1943

Felix Hess made this drawing of dancing children, probably in the early 20th century, with what looks like charcoal or graphite on paper. I really love how the grayness gives everything a kind of ghostly, dreamlike feel. I can almost see Hess there, sketching away, trying to capture the fleeting joy of these kids, dancing with their hands clasped. The strokes are delicate, almost hesitant, as if he’s trying not to disturb the scene, like a memory slowly fading in and out. It’s kind of sad when you think about it. You know, it reminds me of other artists who were trying to capture everyday life, like the Impressionists, but with a kind of melancholy twist. Hess seems to be saying, "Look at this beautiful moment, but remember, it won’t last." And that’s what makes it so powerful, this dance between joy and sorrow.