Figuren op straat 1875 - 1934

Isaac Israels made this drawing of figures on the street with graphite on paper. It's like a visual thought, a quick sketch capturing a fleeting moment. The texture of the paper comes through, becoming part of the image. Israels uses the graphite to create depth with smudges and scribbled lines that are so raw, so immediate. Look at the strokes describing the building. See how they're not precise but energetic? This way of working emphasizes process, where the act of drawing becomes more important than the subject itself. I am reminded of Cy Twombly, or even some of the abstract expressionists. This drawing feels like an exploration of form and space, a conversation between the artist, the subject, and the materials. It's not about perfection; it's about the beauty found in the imperfect.