Tapir 1876 - 1924

Gerrit Willem Dijsselhof made this image of a tapir on paper, using graphite. The essence of this drawing lies in the directness of its creation. We see the tapir rendered with minimal strokes, yet capturing its form. The graphite gives the image a tactile quality, contrasting with the smooth paper. It’s a material that invites the viewer to consider the artist's hand, the pressure applied, and the speed of execution. Dijsselhof's quick and sparse strokes do not seek to conceal the artistic process, nor do they give a sense of grandness to the artwork. This method highlights the labour and the decisions made in the artistic process. Dijsselhof’s choice of everyday materials places this drawing in the tradition of craft. It challenges the hierarchies of artistic practice. It is an invitation to reassess the boundaries between high art and craft.