Stars and Disasters (Astres et Désastres) 

Pierre Alechinsky's "Stars and Disasters," a print of unknown date, presents a compelling look into the artist’s psyche as it relates to the broader world. Born in Belgium in 1927, Alechinsky's experiences during World War II profoundly shaped his understanding of chaos, resilience, and the human condition. His work often employs a semi-abstract, calligraphic style, influenced by his involvement with the CoBrA group, who sought a spontaneous and expressive art free from academic constraints. Here, the concentric circles and vibrant colors belie the tension suggested by the title. The star-like central form, rendered in cool blues, is encased in a tumultuous, fiery red shape. The outer layers ripple with greens and yellows, evoking a sense of both containment and impending rupture. It’s as if Alechinsky is inviting us to consider the beauty and terror of the universe, and the delicate balance between order and collapse. Ultimately, "Stars and Disasters" is a meditation on our place in the cosmos, a poignant reflection on the inherent fragility of existence, and a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit.