Flight To Egypt 2008

Alexander Roitburd's "Flight to Egypt" pulsates with figures, evoking the biblical narrative through a lens of raw emotion. The raised hands, almost universal symbols of supplication or desperation, draw us in. Consider the recurring motif of ladders; they're not just about physical ascent, they echo Jacob's Ladder, linking earthly struggle to divine hope. These symbols connect to ancient desires for transcendence. The act of carrying houses, a poignant paradox, reminds us of Aeneas fleeing Troy, bearing his household gods, or even Saint Christopher, the carrier of Christ. Here, the weight of home, of heritage, becomes a burden and a salvation. The dark palette amplifies the psychological tension, engaging our subconscious fears and hopes. This powerful image acts as a testament to how ancient symbols persist, evolving yet echoing through our collective memory.