Schreierstoren te Amsterdam 1890 - 1946

Cornelis Vreedenburgh made this sketch of Schreierstoren in Amsterdam with graphite on paper. It's all about the marks and the lines, which feel so immediate and present. I can imagine Vreedenburgh quickly capturing the scene, his hand moving swiftly across the paper, trying to capture the essence of the architecture, the light, and the atmosphere. The texture of the graphite creates a range of tonal variations, giving depth and form to the tower and its surroundings. Look at the bold strokes defining the outline of the buildings compared to the softer shading that suggests light and shadow. It reminds me of other plein air painters like Johan Barthold Jongkind or Eugène Boudin, who were interested in capturing the fleeting effects of light and weather on the landscape. Artists are always looking at each other, thinking about new ways of seeing and feeling. It’s a constant conversation across time and place.