Rhesus Factor (Facteur Rhésus) 1967

"Rhesus Factor" is a painting by Pierre Alechinsky, featuring broad strokes of vibrant red against a dark backdrop, all framed by intricate border of whimsical drawings. I can imagine him wrestling with the canvas, that central form emerging from a dance between control and chance. It makes me think of the thick application of paint, how it can almost take on a life of its own. Look at the way the red paint splatters and bleeds, giving a feeling of raw energy, contained by the black behind. The surrounding border of little images, are they doodles, afterthoughts? They remind me of Miro and other surrealists. I’m struck by the physicality of the process and the conversation it starts, not just with other artists, but with us, the viewers. Painting isn't about answers; it's about embracing the questions.