If there is no Water in the Tap. Leo Tolstoy 2011

Editor: Here we have Alexander Roitburd's "If there is no Water in the Tap. Leo Tolstoy," painted in 2011 with oil on canvas. The portrait’s raw, almost brooding, mood definitely catches your eye. I'm curious, what does this work tell you about the intersection of art and society, particularly considering the subject is Leo Tolstoy? Curator: The title immediately makes me think about resource scarcity and its potential impact on spirituality and intellect, given Tolstoy's presence. Roitburd is known for his commentary on contemporary social and political issues, so placing Tolstoy, a figure of moral authority, in such a context speaks volumes. The textured brushstrokes and muted color palette amplify the sense of unease, reflecting a potentially critical view of how societal values are maintained, or eroded, under pressure. Do you see how the choice of depicting Tolstoy specifically influences your perception? Editor: Definitely. It’s not just any figure reading a book; it's Tolstoy, a symbol of resistance through thought. So, the broken water tap almost feels like a metaphor for a broken societal contract. What about the garb, the tallit? How does it shape our understanding of the painting's meaning? Curator: The tallit worn by Tolstoy recontextualizes him from simply a literary figure to one deeply embedded in a specific cultural and religious history. Roitburd is potentially prompting us to consider how tradition intersects with modern societal problems, like the potential failure of basic infrastructure. Editor: It's interesting how Roitburd uses Tolstoy’s iconic image to speak about very contemporary concerns. I guess I didn't expect to find social commentary hidden in a portrait of a writer! Curator: Precisely. And that’s often the power of art – using familiar imagery to prompt fresh perspectives on pressing issues of the day. Roitburd challenges us to see the past, and its celebrated figures, through the lens of current societal struggles.