Waitresses 

This evocative painting by Iwo Zaniewski, titled "Waitresses," is rendered with densely applied pastels, building up a rich, almost tactile surface. The artist handles the pastel medium with evident care, creating a composition that is both intriguing and deeply symbolic. The figures are built up through layer upon layer of pigment, imbuing the scene with a palpable sense of the working class. We see the weight of the waitresses’ labor in the material itself – the thickness of the pastel reflecting their dedication to service, as well as the weight of the economic system in which they work. The image is a testament to the enduring power of hand-worked materials to convey complex social themes. Zaniewski’s approach challenges the traditional hierarchy between fine art and craft. The medium is decidedly material and process-oriented, bringing a renewed focus to the labor that is often unseen. Ultimately, “Waitresses” reminds us that art can be a powerful tool for social commentary, blurring the lines between aesthetics and the realities of everyday life.