Duinlandschap 1881 - 1927

Johan Antonie de Jonge made this drawing, *Duinlandschap,* with graphite on paper. At first glance, it is easy to dismiss a work like this as preliminary, simply a quick sketch, but I encourage you to consider the artist’s intention and material choices. The softness of graphite allows for subtle gradations of tone, capturing the shifting light and atmosphere of the Dutch landscape. The artist likely used a variety of graphite grades, from hard to soft, to achieve this effect. Although this is a drawing, the application of shading shows some painterly techniques; however, it is not as simple as sketching on site. Rather, it reflects a deep understanding of his craft in representing natural forms. The very act of sketching outdoors invites us to consider our relationship with the environment.