Studie 1886 - 1923

This is George Hendrik Breitner’s Studie, made with pencil on graph paper. The medium of pencil lends itself to Breitner's artistic process, which appears spontaneous, a quick impression of form. The graph paper contrasts with this apparent spontaneity. Its grid structure, usually associated with precision in mathematics, engineering, or design, here serves as a canvas for a freehand sketch. The texture of the paper is smooth and functional, with a utilitarian feel. The speed of production inherent in drawing allows for immediate translation of thought to paper, in contrast to the lengthy production process of, say, oil painting. Here, the mundane graph paper enables everyday creative experimentation, bringing art into the realm of the quotidian, collapsing distinctions between high art and the accessibility of everyday materials.