Hanging On 2008

Rochelle Blumenfeld created 'Hanging On' as an oil on canvas, its date is unknown. Her abstract and geometric forms convey a sense of precariousness, evoking societal instability. The painting's fragmented shapes and muted colors, punctuated by sharp reds, reflect a mid-century anxiety pervasive in American culture. The work could be seen as an oblique commentary on the Cold War, where the threat of nuclear annihilation hung heavy, mirrored in the artwork’s delicate balance. Blumenfeld likely engaged with prevailing artistic trends, such as Abstract Expressionism and its focus on emotional intensity, here tempered through a lens of social awareness. Further understanding could be gained through researching Blumenfeld’s biography, reading period critiques of her exhibitions, and comparing her work to contemporary artists. Art historical interpretation always benefits from an understanding of socio-political context.