Studies c. 1895

Curator: This is "Studies," a drawing by Carel Adolph Lion Cachet, created around 1895. It’s currently held in the Rijksmuseum collection. Editor: Immediately, the dynamic lines give a feeling of unrest, a study of conflicting viewpoints contained within the paper’s boundaries. It's far from resolved. Curator: Cachet worked primarily as a designer and this sketchbook sheet reveals his process of ideation, of translating abstract forms and concepts into concrete, usable designs. You can almost trace the evolution of a motif on the page. He used pencil and ink on paper, which would have been readily available and inexpensive for experimenting. Editor: Yes, look at how line and form create spatial tensions! The geometric frameworks suggest order, while the organic shapes rebel against that very structure. See how those small curves build against the hard, straight edges? How do you interpret the relationship between these conflicting design principles? Curator: I see these intersecting grids less as spatial and more as frameworks – literally supports for possible decorative elements. Consider that, as an art nouveau designer, Cachet’s works often blended fine and applied arts. His work was part of the movement of artists who worked in advertising, design and the decorative arts as well as art production. These geometric frames may very well be elements for stained glass designs. Editor: Possibly, and note how even with rudimentary means – simple graphite and ink – Cachet establishes sophisticated textural variance. This evokes, despite the constraints, rich sensual expression. It feels simultaneously like a design plan, a visual poem and like he’s trying to define space itself. Curator: Precisely! His method illuminates the journey from idea to execution. Studying sketches like this unveils much regarding the commercial art practices during the Art Nouveau movement. It democratized design processes. Editor: It’s compelling to consider such a private moment in the creation process laid bare before us now. A work this unresolved challenges expectations concerning the essence and conclusion of design work. Curator: I agree completely. Viewing his sketches offers invaluable insight into artistic work as commercial labor at the turn of the century. Editor: Absolutely, what a wonderful glimpse at the inner workings of an artist’s mind during the throes of creation.