Twee paarden 1891 - 1941

Leo Gestel made this drawing, Twee paarden, with chalk. It is very direct and minimal. The marks are so quick! I can feel the artist capturing the essence of these horses, focusing more on their form and presence than on details. The shapes are defined with such a sparse economy. It makes me think about how artists are always chasing after something elusive, trying to pin down a feeling or idea with just a few strokes. What was Gestel after? How long did he spend on the drawing? I can imagine him working quickly, trying to capture the energy of the horses. This feels connected to the wider Cubist and Expressionist movements of the time. I love how the simplest gestures can evoke so much. Painting, drawing, making art is such a fascinating way to have a conversation.