The Artist's Hand examines the formative years of Willem de Kooning through his drawings from 1937 to 1954. This collection offers a rare glimpse into the artist's early creative process, featuring many previously unpublished works and pieces unseen by the public for decades. The accompanying text and chronology contextualize these drawings within de Kooning's intellectual and artistic milieu, exploring potential influences from the 1930s to the 1950s.

This collection is presented as a significant resource for understanding Willem de Kooning's artistic evolution during a crucial period of his career. The inclusion of previously unpublished works and the contextual essays aim to provide scholars and enthusiasts with new insights into his early influences and creative thinking. The focus on drawings offers a more intimate look at the artist's hand and the foundational stages of his iconic style. The book serves as both an exhibition catalog and an art historical study.