Hek 1939 - 2009

Kees Stoop made this drawing, Hek, at an unknown date, using pencil on paper. Look at the way Stoop’s marks build up, hatching and cross-hatching create the scene’s forms with such apparent ease, and this approach mirrors the way we experience the world, bit by bit, piecing things together. The texture! It’s almost rough enough to touch, isn’t it? Especially on those gate posts. Notice how the pencil lines aren't just descriptive; they're alive. See how Stoop uses the side of the pencil to create shadows, giving depth to the otherwise linear image. It's like he’s feeling his way through the scene, letting the pencil dance across the paper. This reminds me of Philip Guston, who also let his hand lead the way, embracing the messy, imperfect beauty of the moment. I think this piece invites us to slow down, to linger, and to find beauty in the everyday.