Dansende vrouw in doorzichtige draperieën 1891 - 1941

This charcoal drawing on paper is called ‘Dancing Woman in Transparent Draperies’ and was created by Leo Gestel. The artist is trying to capture movement on a static surface. I wonder if Gestel was sketching quickly? The marks are very economic. There’s not a lot of rubbing out or second guessing! The artist is so confident, which makes me think it must be someone he knows or has drawn before. The image is very immediate and in the moment. I wonder what the model was thinking? It looks like she’s in rehearsal and perhaps a little lost in thought? The drawing is an interesting exercise in economy and reduction. Gestel uses a very limited palette and mark-making to indicate space and form. What might this mean? The marks act like a diagram for how to make a painting and show you what’s really important: movement, drama, and performance. In this way, Gestel reminds us that art is also an ongoing process that embraces uncertainty, allowing multiple readings.