Wheel 1939

"Wheel," a 1939 mural by Mexican artist José Clemente Orozco, depicts a large industrial wheel, a symbol of modern technology and progress. The wheel is positioned in the upper portion of the composition, seemingly rising from a mass of fractured, geometric shapes in a muted palette. The lower section, rendered in shades of gray, hints at a broken and fragmented society, possibly representing the struggles and challenges accompanying industrialization. Orozco's work often explored social commentary, with a focus on the human condition in the face of technological advancements. The stark contrast between the powerful, bright wheel and the fragmented lower section suggests an ambivalent view towards progress, simultaneously showcasing its potential while highlighting its potential for disruption.