Figuren die lasten trekken 1906 - 1945

Reijer Stolk made "Figuren die lasten trekken" as a sketch with pencil on paper. There's a real sense of searching here; the artist trying to find the form, again and again, on the page. The pencil lines are tentative, layered, like he's thinking through his hand. Look at how the figures are confined within the boxes, the space feels tight, almost claustrophobic, adding to the sense of strain and effort. I love the way Stolk captures the weight and tension in these bodies. The line is thin, almost fragile, yet conveys so much about the physical exertion of the figures. It reminds me a little of Käthe Kollwitz, who also explored themes of labor and suffering in her work. Both artists have this incredible ability to evoke empathy and understanding through their art. Ultimately, this drawing feels like a testament to the human spirit, our capacity to endure and persevere, even under the most difficult circumstances. It's a beautiful, powerful piece.