The Storm 

Alex Gross’s painting *The Storm* presents a meticulously rendered scene using the traditional medium of oil on canvas. Gross’s technical virtuosity is immediately apparent in the smooth, almost photographic realism of the figures. This isn’t just about skill; it’s a deliberate choice that lends the surreal setting an unsettling hyperreality. The artist skillfully applies thin layers of paint to create depth and luminosity, echoing the techniques of classical portraiture, yet this careful process seems to serve an entirely contemporary vision. The juxtaposition of familiar consumer objects, like the scooter and ice cream cone, with strange details, such as a lizard-man in a suit, introduces a sense of unease. Ultimately, Gross’s painting challenges our assumptions about skill and labor in art. He elevates detailed craftsmanship to explore themes of consumerism, alienation, and the absurd, reminding us that the act of creation is always intertwined with broader social issues.