Dimensions: height 288 mm, width 237 mm
Copyright: Rijks Museum: Open Domain
Hans Borrebach made this monochrome illustration of a bustling airport scene, likely with ink and wash, though I can’t be sure. It’s all about the balance between control and accident, isn't it? Look at the lines—some are sharp and deliberate, defining edges with confidence, while others are softer, more tentative, like the shading on the figures. This reminds me that artmaking is not about perfection, but about embracing the unpredictable nature of materials and the process itself. The tonal variations evoke a sense of atmosphere, with the darker shadows creating depth and volume. The artist's skillful use of light and shadow adds drama and narrative intrigue to the scene. I wonder, is that woman with the camera about to photograph someone, or is she the subject of someone else’s gaze? I like the little note scribbled at the bottom too. It makes me feel like I’m in on a joke. This piece puts me in mind of Edward Hopper, though without the colour, and shares a similar sense of narrative ambiguity and intrigue. These paintings are a reminder that art is an ongoing conversation, an exchange of ideas across time and space.
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