Herman Gordijn's (1932-2017) work occupies a unique position in Dutch modern art. One of the characteristic features of his work is that it leaves a lasting impression and is not easily forgotten. However, the startling effect he creates isn't so much due to the image itself but to the considered and balanced use of composition, rhythm, colour, light and shade, the use of paint and the brushwork. In fact, it's this use of an abstract language which gives his paintings their eloquence and expression. This holds true not only for these paintings and commissioned portraits but also for the drawings, etchings, woodcuts and lithographs.