Zelfportret van Jan Hoynck van Papendrecht 1911

This is a self-portrait made in 1911 by Jan Hoynck van Papendrecht using pencil on paper. Look at the hatching used to create tone. It is an intimate sketch that captures the artist’s likeness with careful detail, especially in the face and around the eyes. I can imagine Hoynck van Papendrecht studying himself in the mirror, thinking hard about who he is, how he sees himself, and how he wants to be seen by others. It is a quiet, introspective moment. The pencil marks build up the forms, creating a texture that feels both delicate and strong. The lines around the jacket are looser, sketchier, suggesting a sense of movement and spontaneity. It makes me think about how we construct our identities, piecing together different aspects of ourselves. Artists have always looked at each other, learning and building on the ideas of those who came before. It's an ongoing conversation, each artist adding their own unique voice to the mix.