Studies 1890 - 1946

Cornelis Vreedenburgh made these Studies, with graphite on paper, sometime between the late 19th and mid 20th century. There's something so vulnerable about a study like this, like catching the artist in a moment of pure thought. Look at how Vreedenburgh approaches the page, almost tentatively, mapping out these geometric forms with delicate lines. You can almost feel the artist figuring it out as he goes along. I like the way the simple lines and shapes interact with the off-white of the page to create a sense of space and depth. It’s hard to say exactly what he's planning, but the composition feels sturdy, resolved. I'm reminded a little of Mondrian, especially the early drawings. Both artists share a fascination with simple forms, and how they can be combined to create more complex compositions. Ultimately, it's a reminder that art is a process, a journey of discovery. It's in that spirit that a simple sketch can feel so rich and compelling.