Dancing Woman 1920

Victor Palmov made this painting, Dancing Woman, using oil on canvas. Palmov's got a way of breaking down form, doesn't he? The composition is rendered with a patchwork of planes, where rosy hues meet earthy browns, and dark blacks in a geometric dance. These aren't just colours slapped on; they're carefully considered, each block working to create a sense of movement, almost like a Cubist puzzle. Look closely, and you’ll see how he’s built up the surface. The paint is thin in places, allowing the canvas's texture to peek through, while in others, it’s thicker, giving a tangible weight to the forms. It is almost collage-like! See how the lace detail is handled, so delicate and precise against the angular planes of the figures. It’s these contrasts that keep our eyes moving, constantly finding new relationships, and echoes within the composition. You can almost feel the rhythm and energy of the dance. It reminds me of Alexandra Exter, another artist who reveled in the dynamism of form and color.