Quasi dipinto 1968

Giorgio Griffa made this painting, Quasi dipinto, with what looks like diluted acrylic on raw canvas. What strikes me is the painting's simplicity, the way Griffa fearlessly embraces the bare minimum. It’s like he’s saying, “Here’s the essence of painting; take it or leave it.” Check out the texture of the canvas, you can see how the paint seeps into the weave. The white stripes feel almost casual, like a set of instructions, roughly applied. It's not precious. The paint is thin enough that the ground shows through, and this gives the piece a transparency. I'm reminded of Agnes Martin, who also knew how to do so much with so little. Both artists share a commitment to the grid. They show us that sometimes, the most powerful statement is the one made with the quietest voice.