Plattegrond van Amsterdam, 1902 1902

This “Plattegrond van Amsterdam” was made in 1902 by an anonymous artist, and it shows us the city like a puzzle of shapes and colors. The first thing that grabs you is the grid, a kind of skeleton holding everything together. Then you notice the colors – muted greens and reds, like faded memories. Look at the way the artist uses these colors to define the buildings and waterways. The red is like a blush, highlighting the areas where people lived and worked. There’s a real tenderness in the way the city is depicted, even with the rigid grid. It reminds me of some of Agnes Martin’s work, where she uses grids to create a sense of calm and order. Ultimately, this map is more than just a guide; it’s a way of seeing and experiencing a city. It reminds us that art is an ongoing conversation, always open to new interpretations and ideas.