ZR7 1953

Erich Buchholz made this relief, ZR7, most likely in the mid-twentieth century, with paint on plaster. At first glance the palette seems limited, almost monochromatic, but look closer and you'll see a red and a pink dot, punctuating the off-white ground, adding a touch of playfulness to the composition. I’m really drawn to the texture of this piece, the way the plaster has been built up to create a tactile surface. The texture gives the piece an almost architectural feel, like a fragment of a wall or a building. Look at how the vertical lines and circular forms are embedded in the plaster, creating a sense of depth and shadow. These linear indentations and the subtly coloured circles bring the piece to life. Thinking of other artists using geometric abstraction and unusual materials, I’m reminded of Kurt Schwitters, and his use of found objects and collage to create dynamic compositions. Like Schwitters, Buchholz seems interested in pushing the boundaries of what a painting can be. It’s a reminder that art is an ongoing conversation, with artists borrowing and riffing off each other’s ideas across time.