Vija Celmins
Vija Celmins (Latvia/USA, 1938) is a celebrated artist known for her meticulous drawings and paintings of natural phenomena, such as ocean waves, starry skies, and desert landscapes. Using graphite and oil, she achieves stunning realism while evoking timelessness and stillness. Her works are highly influential in contemporary art.

What is minimalism?
Minimalism is a style in music and visual arts characterized by pared-down designs and simplicity. It began in Western art after World War II, gaining prominence particularly in American visual arts. Minimalism draws heavily on aspects of modernism and is often viewed as a reaction against Abstract Expressionism, as well as a precursor to post-minimal art practices. Prominent minimalist artists include Agnes Martin, Donald Judd, Robert Morris, Frank Stella, and Dan Flavin.