Oriental Minimalism from the West : Agnes Martin – With my Back to the World (1997)

Agnes Martin – 'Beauty is in Your Mind'

"With My Back to the World" is a significant artwork created by Agnes Martin, a renowned American abstract painter known for her serene and minimalist compositions. Completed in 1997, this painting is one of Martin's later works, reflecting her mature style and profound exploration of simplicity and spirituality.

The artwork features Martin's characteristic grid-like composition, consisting of horizontal and vertical lines meticulously drawn in subtle shades of pale blue, gray, and white. The lines are precisely executed with delicate graphite or pencil strokes, creating a sense of harmony and tranquility on the canvas.

The title, "With My Back to the World," suggests a sense of introspection and detachment from external distractions. Martin's work often conveys a meditative quality, inviting viewers to contemplate the subtleties of line, colour, and form. In this piece, the orderly arrangement of lines evokes a sense of order and clarity, offering a visual representation of inner peace and serenity.

Martin's minimalist approach to art is deeply rooted in her interest in Eastern philosophy, particularly Taoism and Zen Buddhism. She believed in the power of art to communicate universal truths and evoke a sense of transcendence beyond the material world. "With My Back to the World" exemplifies Martin's commitment to simplicity and her belief in the transformative potential of abstract art.

Agnes Martin and Eastern philosophy 

Agnes Martin's engagement with Eastern philosophy deeply influenced her artistic practice and worldview. Born in Canada in 1912, Martin spent much of her life in the United States, where she became one of the leading figures in abstract expressionism. Her interest in Eastern philosophy began to develop during her formative years as an artist and continued to shape her work throughout her career.

Martin's exploration of Eastern philosophy was partly influenced by her own personal journey and search for meaning. In the 1950s, after struggling with mental health issues and feeling disillusioned with the art world, she withdrew from society and embarked on a period of introspection and spiritual quest. During this time, she traveled extensively, spending time in New Mexico and eventually settling in New York City, where she became acquainted with various spiritual teachings and practices.

One of the key influences on Martin's thinking was the philosophy of Taoism, which emphasizes the principles of harmony, balance, and the interconnectedness of all things. She was particularly drawn to the concept of wu wei, which can be translated as "effortless action" or "non-doing." This idea resonated with Martin's own artistic approach, which prioritized simplicity, intuition, and a sense of flow in the creative process.

Zen Buddhism was another important influence on Martin's work. She admired the Zen emphasis on mindfulness, meditation, and the pursuit of inner peace. Martin often spoke of her belief in the transformative power of art to convey universal truths and evoke a sense of spiritual transcendence. Her paintings, with their spare compositions and subtle geometric forms, were intended to create a space for contemplation and reflection, much like the meditative practice of Zen.

Throughout her life, Martin remained deeply committed to her spiritual beliefs, incorporating them into both her art and her way of living. She saw her paintings not just as aesthetic objects, but as expressions of her inner journey and attempts to connect with the divine. By engaging with Eastern philosophy, Martin found a framework for understanding the world and expressing her vision of beauty, simplicity, and transcendence through her art.

Overall, "With My Back to the World" embodies Agnes Martin's distinctive artistic vision, characterised by its subtle beauty, contemplative atmosphere, and profound expression of inner harmony. It remains a poignant example of her enduring legacy as one of the foremost figures in abstract expressionism.

Agnes and Brynn

Agnes Martin's profound exploration of Eastern philosophy and her quest for inner harmony deeply resonated with Brynn, inspiring our ethos and creative vision. The simplicity, balance, and timeless beauty found in Martin's paintings serve as a guiding light for us, shaping our commitment to creating skincare products that nurture both the body and soul. Much like Martin's emphasis on mindfulness and effortless action, we prioritise integrity, authenticity, and holistic well-being in everything we do. With "With My Back to the World (1997)" as a source of inspiration, we strive to cultivate a sense of connection, serenity, and inner peace in the hearts and minds of our customers, inviting them to embark on their own journey of self-discovery and transformation through the art of skincare.