Studies 1890 - 1946

Editor: This is "Studies" by Cornelis Vreedenburgh, made sometime between 1890 and 1946. It's a sketch from a sketchbook, with pen, ink and pencil on aged paper. I find it intriguing because of its raw, almost unfinished quality. What stands out to you about this piece? Curator: For me, the interesting thing here is precisely that “unfinished quality.” We often divorce the ‘final’ art object from the process of making, yet this page gives us insight into Vreedenburgh’s practice. Consider the materiality – the cheap paper, the readily available pen and ink. These choices speak to a democratization of art-making, moving away from precious materials and formal studio settings. What do you make of the repetition of motifs here? Editor: Well, I see some architectural shapes. Maybe chairs? It’s like he's working through ideas, seeing what works and what doesn't. The materials also give a sense of intimacy, a peek into his personal process. Curator: Exactly. And consider this intimacy not just as personal expression, but also a consequence of the economic reality of artistic labor. Sketchbooks like these were crucial tools for artists to experiment, develop ideas, and hone their skills—a kind of artistic labor that often goes unacknowledged in the grand narratives of art history. How does understanding the materials and processes change your view of the artwork? Editor: I guess I see it less as a finished statement, and more as a record of artistic work. The value comes from witnessing the artist's thought process and the tools of their trade. It’s a rejection of the idea that art is just about the finished product, right? Curator: Precisely! It foregrounds the artist's labor and the often overlooked processes of artistic production. It’s a reminder that art is not just inspiration, but also work. Editor: I'll definitely think differently about sketchbooks now! They're not just preliminary studies; they are a window into the artist’s world, materials, and labor. Curator: Absolutely. Examining the "how" and "why" of artmaking gives us a richer and more nuanced understanding of artistic value.