Kineshma. Steamer at the pier 1906

Boris Kustodiev made this drawing of a steamer at a pier in Kineshma with what looks like graphite or charcoal, and it’s all about the beauty of a quick sketch. You can see the energy in each line. Look at how he captures the reflections in the water with these wiggly, broken marks. It's not about being precise, but about getting the feeling of the light and movement. And then there's the way he suggests the details of the boats and buildings with just a few well-placed lines. I love that it feels so immediate, like he was just sitting there, capturing the scene as it unfolded. It reminds me of some of the drawings of Käthe Kollwitz, especially in the way it uses simple materials to create a powerful sense of place and mood. Both artists share this ability to find beauty in the everyday, and to convey a deep sense of humanity through their work. It’s a reminder that art doesn't always have to be polished or perfect, sometimes the most powerful work is the stuff that feels raw and unfinished.