Pad in een landschap 1923

Alexander Shilling made this landscape sketch with graphite. The sketch uses a limited range of marks to depict trees, a path, and sky. The lines are scratchy and tentative, like the artist is feeling his way through the scene. This process makes it feel less about the subject matter and more about the artist's hand. I'm particularly drawn to the row of trees on the left. They create a rhythmic pattern that leads your eye into the distance. The textures in the sky contrast with the stark, bare branches of the trees. It is a great illustration of simplicity that invites contemplation. The understated nature of this sketch reminds me of some of Agnes Martin's drawings. Both artists embrace a quiet, meditative approach to artmaking. Their work invites us to slow down and appreciate the subtle beauty of the world around us.