Ballerinas 

Constantin Piliuta painted 'Ballerinas', capturing the ethereal grace of dancers in a style that softens the rigid demands of classical ballet. Piliuta was working during a time in which ballet still represented the height of artistic discipline and feminine ideals. In this painting, the ballerinas are mid-motion. Their tutus are frothy and cloud-like, contrasting the demanding, often painful, realities of ballet training. By softening the edges and focusing on the fluidity of movement, Piliuta perhaps acknowledges the physical and emotional labor involved in ballet, while still honoring the beauty of the dance. Piliuta offers a space to consider the complexities inherent in ballet, and in the performance of identity more broadly. This painting captures both the aspiration and the struggle, reminding us of the human experience behind the poised facade.