Robert Ryman's art in the 1960s represents a crucial period in the artist's development, during which he began to firmly establish the foundational principles of his work. This era was marked by significant experimentation with materials, formats, and the nuanced interplay between paint and surface. Through his work during this time, Ryman elucidated many of the fundamental ideas that would preoccupy him throughout his sixty-year career. In the early 1960s, Ryman's exploration included using thick impasto brushstrokes on both stretched and unstretched canvases, as well as experimenting with scale in both small and large formats. He also worked on raw linen, creating compositions that seemed complete in themselves yet were part of a broader investigative practice. These early works demonstrated Ryman's interest in the material and experiential qualities of painting, investigating the visual and tactile aspects that define how a work of art is encountered​ (David Zwirner)​. During this period, Ryman also began to experiment with color, though he is widely recognized for his white-on-white paintings. His works from this time sometimes featured subtle hints of color beneath the dominant white, affecting the overall perception of the piece. In some instances, Ryman used untreated canvas, where the natural hues of the material created a contrast with the applied paint, enhancing the visual impact of the work. One notable piece from 1964 contains various square forms that both protrude from and dissolve into the support, showcasing Ryman's distinct brushwork and his interest in the relationship between color, form, and texture​ (David Zwirner)​. Ryman's work during the 1960s laid the groundwork for his later reputation as a leading figure in abstract painting. By focusing on the square as his primary format and delving into the properties of white paint, Ryman sought to strip painting down to its most essential elements. His approach to painting, characterized by a meticulous attention to the physical presence of the work and its interaction with the surrounding space, highlighted his belief in the integral role of perception and context in the aesthetic experience​ (The Museum of Modern Art)​. This era in Ryman's career was pivotal, not only for the artist himself but also for the broader trajectory of abstract and minimalist art. Through his rigorous formal investigation and innovative use of materials, Ryman challenged conventional notions of painting and contributed significantly to the dialogue around the possibilities of the medium.