A system for graphically displaying data, and for allowing users to interactively analyze said data, particularly with respect to detecting and analyzing any relationships within said data. The invention is particularly suited to analysis of large multi-variate matrix data or two-dimensional data sets that can be stored in a data array. The system includes a visual Data Pane, that is used by an operator to provide a focus+context view into the data. Each data item is initially presented as a small object or region on the operator's screen. In response to an operator signal, the source data value and data type of a source data item in the array is obtained and indirectly represented in the Data Pane image. During a focusing operation the area of interest within the constraints of the Data Pane window is expanded, and related or more detailed data is presented to the user.