Universe of Love 

Editor: Today, we're looking at Sabin Balasa's oil painting, "Universe of Love". It's a dreamy piece, with a sort of winged couple floating in this vast blue space alongside these strange, cellular-looking shapes. What really strikes me is how the figures seem almost ethereal. What do you make of it? Curator: Intriguing piece. Formally, the artist employs a restricted palette, dominated by blues, which creates a sense of depth and infinity, doesn't it? Consider the composition: the central figures, with their wings, draw our eyes immediately, acting as the nucleus around which the other shapes orbit. It is a masterful demonstration of chiaroscuro, yes? Editor: Definitely! The contrast between the blues and the lighter figures really makes them pop. What about the almost biological structures on the edges? What do you think they represent, structurally? Curator: The shapes, are ambiguous. They resemble cells, perhaps, but also planetary bodies. Structurally, they provide contrast, opposing to the figures smoothness by being organic-feeling but highly symmetrical. The intention is to explore the intersection of macro and micro, cosmic and cellular. Do you notice how the texture creates an element of disruption and imbalance against the otherwise balanced form of the 'couple?' Editor: I do. They bring a grounded, almost scientific element to the more romantic figures. What effect is achieved by using the oil medium on these themes, what is the intention here? Curator: The employment of oil paint, known for its viscosity and blend-ability, facilitates the realization of gradations, yielding in the portrayal of luminosity emanating from the subjects. Through harnessing the capabilities inherent in the medium, Balasa engenders a nuanced optical occurrence that harmonizes efficaciously in the depiction of spiritual as well as transcendental elements. Editor: It’s interesting how much can be gleaned just from looking closely at the formal elements. It makes me appreciate the artist’s technique so much more. Curator: Indeed. Art often speaks through its intrinsic elements first. And now, your perceptions about art and formalist interpretations should only expand and be made better.