Moos Boeke

Duizend Vadem ("A Thousand Fathoms")

Moos Boeke is an illustrator and writer. In his work, words and images converge in stories that lie on the border between prose, poetry, and something entirely different. They often deal with love, mythology, and human relationships. Moos chooses his drawing style and media based on what best serves the story, allowing his style to vary slightly from project to project. Yet, a predilection for graphite and sensitive linework remains recognisable in all his work.

The graduation project, "Duizend Vadem" (Thousand Fathoms), is a graphic novel about brothers, darkness, and hope. The text, written by Benny Lindelauf (author of "Hele verhalen van een halve soldaat" (The Whole Stories of a Half Soldier), winner of the 2021 Woutertje Pieterse Prize), tells the story of two boys at the edge of a dark, chilly lake. When the eldest brother is seriously injured, young Warren must endure a gruelling journey across the frozen lake—and overcome his own fears.

The techniques Moos uses are in keeping with the story: conté for the darkness of the fathomless lake, charcoal for the misty night, and pencil for the biting wind. By alternating and combining these materials, he brings the story's grim and tranquil atmosphere to life.

"Duizend Vadem" will be published by Querido in early 2026.