Boom in stolp c. 1944 - 1990

Kees Stoop made this etching, Boom in stolp, using delicate lines to create a world of texture and detail. It's the kind of piece that reminds you artmaking is always a process of layering, of building something from almost nothing. Look closely, and you'll see how the density of the marks varies, creating areas of light and shadow. The tree almost appears trapped within the lines, which adds to the intimate feeling of the piece. The lines are so fine, and create the feel of the leaves and foliage. There is a real sense of depth within the work. Stoop reminds me of artists like Stanley William Hayter, who were masters of the etched line. Like them, Stoop shows us that art isn't about perfection, but about embracing the unexpected and finding beauty in the process.