Study for Aviation. Evolution of Forms Under Aerodynamic Limitations (Newark Airport Mural) 1936

Editor: Here we have Arshile Gorky's "Study for Aviation. Evolution of Forms Under Aerodynamic Limitations (Newark Airport Mural)" from 1936, crafted in oil paint. It’s fascinating – the stark geometric shapes are so rigid, almost machine-like, but there's a fluidity there too. What leaps out at you when you look at this, besides the obvious red stripes? Curator: The 'obvious' stripes *are* rather demanding, aren't they? They tug you in, don't let you wander... Gorky was commissioned to create murals celebrating aviation’s promise at Newark Airport. Alas, they were painted over... heartbreaking, isn’t it? I imagine this study captures that utopian spirit, but already filtered through a slightly melancholic lens. Do you see how the geometric forms suggest the streamlining of aircraft, the way engineers were rethinking motion itself? It's all angles and potential, but strangely still. Editor: I see that now, definitely. So, is the stillness on purpose? Like he’s saying the idea is better than the reality? Curator: Perhaps. Or perhaps he's reflecting the awkward dance between organic form and mechanical precision. The forms *are* clunky, aren’t they, fighting against those ‘aerodynamic limitations’ mentioned in the title? The limited palette reinforces this; everything is muted, constrained, hinting at something more vibrant just beyond reach. What do you think the red signifies? Editor: It stands out so much – it could be energy, warning… something essential to the whole composition, literally holding it together. I wouldn't have considered the limitations otherwise! It seemed contradictory before. Curator: Exactly! He is grappling with the limitations imposed upon form by function – so forward thinking! Now, looking again, what's your takeaway? Editor: It feels like Gorky isn't just depicting aviation; he’s dissecting the very concept of progress. Like he’s asking: how much of ourselves do we sacrifice in the name of innovation? Curator: Beautifully put. It makes me want to fly – and maybe weep a little, all at the same time!