Schaap en lammeren in een schuur 1901

Frans Lebret made this drawing of sheep and lambs in a barn with ink on paper. I’m really drawn to the hatching and cross-hatching; the density of the lines suggests form, and the tonality that comes with that technique creates light and shadow. Up close, the ink is really alive, forming these wiry textures, particularly on the sheep. Look how the lines swarm and clump together to define the sheep’s wooly coat. There's a rhythm to them. You can almost feel the rough texture of the barn wood. The simplicity and directness of the ink are so honest, so raw. The sheep are simply rendered, with an economy of line, but still have a sense of depth and volume to them. Lebret does not hide his process, instead, the marks are there for you to observe and take pleasure in. Lebret’s work reminds me a little of Van Gogh’s drawings – not in style, but in the way he uses line to create form and texture. Like Van Gogh, Lebret isn't afraid to let the marks speak for themselves. It’s a refreshing reminder that art doesn't always have to be polished and perfect.