Birsk 1916

Lyubov Popova created "Birsk" using oil on canvas, in a style known as Cubo-Futurism. The canvas becomes a site of energetic construction, with sharp-edged forms interlocking to suggest buildings and landscapes. Look closely, and you'll see how the oil paint is layered to create texture, which adds to the dynamic feel of the piece. Popova was deeply engaged with the social and political changes happening in Russia during the early 20th century, and this artistic style was very much a part of it. The geometric abstraction reflects an interest in industrialization and the built environment. But beyond just representation, the artist is thinking about the nature of labor itself. Every brushstroke and layering of paint represents a physical act, mirroring the work that goes into constructing a city. Ultimately, this painting invites us to think about the relationship between artistic creation and the broader forces shaping society, reminding us that art is not separate from the world, but deeply embedded in it.