Zus in zwemkleding in Het Zoute 1935 - 1939

Otto Verhagen made this drawing of his sister in swimwear at Het Zoute, on the 21st of September 1935, using graphite pencil on paper. Here, the choice of material directly influences our perception of the artwork. Graphite, with its soft, malleable quality, allows for a gentle exploration of form and light. The artist uses the pencil to capture a fleeting moment of relaxation, emphasizing the casual pose and soft contours of the figure. The qualities inherent in the graphite—its ability to smudge, blend, and create subtle gradations of tone—are key to the overall effect. Verhagen’s engagement with drawing as a medium is a tradition deeply embedded in art history. It shows the artist's skill in capturing a likeness with just a few lines, and gives the drawing its intimacy and immediacy. Paying attention to material and process allows us to look beyond the subject matter and appreciate the artist’s skillful manipulation of humble materials.