Kamaz 1973

Petros Malayan made this painting, Kamaz, and it's a real testament to the power of observation and the beauty of labor. The muted palette of ochre, brown, and grays gives the scene a somber, almost historical feel, but look closer. The way he's handled the paint, it's like he's not just depicting these workers but also the grit and sweat of their labor. The surface has this gorgeous, almost fresco-like quality, with visible brushstrokes that build up a sense of depth and texture. See how the figures almost emerge from the background. It's as if Malayan is showing us that the act of creation, whether it's making a painting or working on a construction site, is all about bringing something into being. This reminds me of the social realist painters of the early 20th century, like Diego Rivera, who also depicted workers with such dignity and respect.