Grote Kerk te Weesp c. 1863 - 1864

Maria Vos made this drawing of the Grote Kerk in Weesp with graphite on paper. The strokes of the graphite create varying densities on the page. Vos likely used a series of pencils, from hard to soft, to achieve the tonal variation seen in the image. The texture of the paper also contributes to the overall effect, creating subtle variations in the graphite’s application. What interests me is how the drawing implies the labor of architecture. Vos’ close attention to the structure’s components gives us some sense of the builders’ efforts to create this imposing structure. The sketch flattens this effort while preserving the appearance of immense detail. Paying attention to the material and the making involved in the creation of an artwork allows us to consider its wider context. Vos's drawing captures the essence of the church's architecture and gives subtle clues about the work of its construction.