Street Art: Minimalism

Long ago, the owners of an auto parts business 

on North Capitol Street painted over the glass block 

walls of their building. The blocks probably

replaced windows for security reasons while

still allowing light in the building.

Over the years, the blocks have been painted white

to keep passers-by from seeing the warehoused

parts. As the paint peeled, more coats were added

giving the surface even more texture. 

Pictures like these are easy to find.

Textures, patterns, and depth with just the right

bits of color are always around.

However, if one tried to create it purposely,

it's another matter altogether, one involving a clear

vision of one's intent and absolute understanding

of one's materials. I found a number of

paintings by Robert Ryman that illustrate this point. 

While called a "minimalist", his paintings 

are loaded with variations in tone and texture

that keep them lively and interesting.

Several years ago, one of his white paintings 

sold for $9.6 million. Next month,

Sotheby's is selling another of these paintings,

expecting it to bring $15/20 million.