atlas of relativity (triptych)

photographs | ©2015 Luuk de Haan | 100 x 70,3 cm, image 90 x 60,3 cm
printed on hahnemühle museum etching | unique

The triptych atlas of relativity is rooted in the philosophy of René Descartes, particularly his exploration of doubt as a foundational element of thought. Descartes famously used doubt as a method to arrive at truth, most notably in his statement, “I think, therefore I am” (Cogito, ergo sum). The artist connects this idea to his work, suggesting that doubt is a central theme, reflecting the tension between uncertainty and the search for absolute truth. The title atlas of relativity implies a deliberate avoidance of absolutes – everything is relative, shifting, and open to interpretation, much like the fragmented, non-absolute nature of the shapes in the artwork.

The geometric shapes draws inspiration from the floor plan of ‘t Oude Hof in Bergen, the artist’s hometown, which ties this piece to a specific place and context. This location also has a connection to Descartes, possibly through historical or philosophical associations, as the work was created for an exhibition exploring ‘t Oude Hof’s relationship with the philosopher. The shapes – rectangular and irregular, with scattered dots or marks – symbolize the building blocks of this structure, broken down into abstract forms that mirror the instability or relativity of perception and truth.

The absence of capital letters in the titles, reinforces this avoidance of the ‘obvious’ or absolute. It’s a subtle but deliberate choice to resist conventional authority or certainty, aligning with the theme of doubt. The gray background and stark black shapes create a minimalist, almost clinical feel, which might evoke the rational, analytical nature of Cartesian philosophy, while the fragmentation suggests the impossibility of capturing absolute truth. Leaving room for doubt and interpretation.