Schetsboek met 64 pagina's c. 1891

Here's a sketchbook of 64 pages, made by Egbert Rubertus Derk Schaap. The book’s materiality speaks volumes about the artist's practice. Bound in a coarse, possibly hand-woven linen, the cover hints at the labor-intensive processes involved in its creation. The fabric's texture and the subtle variations in its weave remind us of the human touch, and the time and skill required to produce even the most utilitarian of materials. The sketchbook’s very existence underscores the importance of accessible materials in fostering creativity. Unlike precious canvases or costly paints, the humble sketchbook invites experimentation and exploration, allowing the artist to freely develop ideas without the constraints of perfectionism. In its simplicity, the sketchbook embodies a democratization of art-making, reminding us that creativity can flourish even in the most modest of circumstances. The book is a testament to the inherent value of the everyday, elevating the ordinary to the realm of the extraordinary through the act of creation.