Vertical Spin 1986 - 1987

Editor: Here we have Susan Rothenberg's large-scale piece, "Vertical Spin," from an unspecified date. The density of the brushstrokes makes the figures appear trapped. What emotional undercurrents do you see within these painted figures? Curator: It evokes a deep sense of struggle, doesn't it? The cyclical nature of vertical movement often speaks to both spiritual ascent and the harsh realities of being bound, like Sisyphus's eternal labor. Do you find any religious iconography or patterns suggesting a narrative beyond mere physical exertion? Editor: I hadn't considered the religious aspect, but the figures certainly appear to be acting out a kind of ritual, perhaps even a sacrifice. Curator: Exactly! The visual language is dense but carries deep symbolism. It reminds us that cultural memory often resides in abstract forms, ready to be decoded. Editor: I see now how Rothenberg uses abstraction to convey deeper meanings. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure! It’s a good reminder of how much the visible world is shaped by our internal worlds.