The Forge of Vulcan 2011

Alexander Roitburd made this painting, The Forge of Vulcan, using contrasting colors and energetic lines to convey its subject. The dark background sets off the objects in the painting, making the colors pop. What I find so striking about this piece is the texture, which seems almost sculpted. Look closely and you can see the thick, impasto strokes of paint, particularly in that vibrant green shape hovering above. These marks are confident, almost defiant, but also playful and expressive. It feels like a direct recording of Roitburd's energy, each stroke capturing a moment of decision. Roitburd's work has echoes of artists like Philip Guston, who also embraced a kind of raw, unrefined approach to painting. But Roitburd brings his own unique sensibility to the table, blending classical themes with a contemporary, almost punk-rock energy. It’s a reminder that art isn’t about perfection, but about embracing the messiness and the mystery of being human.