Manshoofd, naar rechts 1869 - 1925

Antoon Derkinderen made this head study with graphite on paper. Graphite, in its powdered form, is mixed with clay and water, then baked to different degrees of hardness. This process is critical, because it determines how dark a line the pencil will make; the softer the lead, the darker the mark. When we look at this drawing, we can see how Derkinderen varies the pressure and angle of the pencil to create shading and depth. The grainy texture of the graphite is also apparent, giving the drawing a slightly rough, unfinished quality. The ease and relative cheapness of pencils have made them a democratic medium. Yet they’re also capable of great subtlety and precision. Derkinderen takes full advantage of this potential, using the pencil to capture not just the likeness of his subject, but also something of their character. Paying attention to these factors can help us to appreciate the skill and artistry that goes into even the simplest of drawings, and to see how materials and making are central to their meaning.