Brice Marden's Grove Group paintings, created between 1972 and 1980, are significant works that reflect a pivotal moment in his career. During this period, Marden's work began to incorporate a network of meandering lines over monochrome panels, marking a departure from his earlier minimalist approach yet continuing to explore touch, surface, color, and tone. This transition was influenced by his experiences and travels, particularly his time spent on the Greek island of Hydra, where the landscape and light significantly impacted his artistic direction​ (www.wikiart.org)​.

Marden's time in Hydra, starting in the early 1970s, introduced him to new materials and techniques, including painting on marble. This period, which lasted into the 1980s, was described as his "Hydra Period" and saw Marden embracing the natural imperfections of marble to create unique artworks. He explored the use of subtle color fields and abstract shapes to accentuate the marble's dimensions, edges, and textural variations, integrating these elements into his Grove Group paintings and other works from this era​ (Athens Insider)​.

This phase of Marden's work is characterized by a blend of minimalism and an emergent complexity, where the serene and meticulously applied colors interact harmoniously with the physical qualities of the canvas or marble. The Grove Group paintings, along with his other works from this period, showcase Marden's evolving artistic language, integrating classical themes and personal experiences into his minimalist roots​ (Dream Idea Machine)​.

Marden's journey through the 1970s and 1980s reflects not just a geographical movement but a profound exploration of light, color, and form influenced by his environment. The Grove Group stands out as a testament to his ability to transform his experiences and observations into art that resonates with the spiritual and aesthetic sensibilities of his audience.