The artist is known for his systematic use of grids and repetitive motifs. This approach often draws from diverse sources, including the iconometry of the Karma Gardri school found in Tibetan art principles. By applying these rigid systems to contemporary subjects, he created a tension between order and randomness. His compositions rely on flat planes of colour and precise line work rather than traditional perspective. This method allows the viewer to focus on the rhythm of the shapes across the surface.

Modern collectors value van der Wal for his clean, graphic aesthetic. His prints work well in contemporary spaces because they offer a balance of intellectual rigour and visual clarity. The work remains relevant because it avoids the sentimentality of traditional representational art. Instead, it provides a sophisticated exploration of form and pattern. These pieces act as a bridge between the bold energy of Pop Art and the restraint of Minimalism.