Relief 70-19 1970

Johannes Jan Schoonhoven made this ‘Relief’ using paint, and board. I love how the off-white palette lets the geometry do all the talking. The board creates a grid, where each square feels like a little world. It's very physical. You can see the texture, the subtle shadows, and the way the paint has been applied, not too thick, not too thin, just enough to catch the light. It’s kind of meditative – this endless repetition. It’s like Schoonhoven is saying, “Let’s see how much we can do with how little.” Schoonhoven reminds me a little of Agnes Martin, but with a sculptural twist. Both of them had this interest in grids. But while Martin’s lines are delicate, Schoonhoven’s are solid. This piece is a reminder that art isn't about answers; it’s about exploring questions.