Standflache IV 1988

Frank Gerritz created this monochromatic print, "Standflache IV," using a minimalist approach that invites us to consider the essence of form and space. Gerritz's work emerged in a West Germany grappling with its postwar identity. The stark geometry and austere palette can be seen as a reaction against the expressive exuberance of earlier movements. The grid structure evokes a sense of order, perhaps reflecting a desire for stability in a society undergoing rapid change. The subtle variations within each square, achieved through the printing process, hint at the imperfections inherent in any system, suggesting a quiet commentary on social structures. To fully understand Gerritz's artistic choices, one could delve into the archives of the Dusseldorf Academy, where he studied, and explore the writings of other artists and critics who championed a more socially engaged form of art. By understanding the cultural landscape of the time, we gain a deeper appreciation for the subtle ways in which Gerritz engages with the world around him.