Towpath rider 1909

Fritz Boehle made this drawing, Towpath Rider, with pen and ink, creating a whole world with simple lines. Look at how he renders the buildings in the background. Each line seems carefully placed, almost architectural in its precision. There’s a real sense of depth despite the limited tonal range. The density of the lines creates shadow and volume, especially in the foreground where we see the horses and rider. Notice how the direction of the lines follows the contours of the horses’ bodies, giving them weight and form. The parallel lines used to depict the water and sky are so rhythmic, so measured. This piece reminds me a little of Käthe Kollwitz's prints. Both Boehle and Kollwitz used line to express the weight of the world. Art’s so cool because it’s always talking to itself across time, don't you think?