And we are not afraid 1922

Nicholas Roerich painted ‘And we are not afraid’ with oil on canvas, but when is anyone’s guess. The painting is made using a very distinctive palette of blues, pinks, and purples, and a flattened perspective. It’s so simple it’s childlike but it has a sophisticated sense of colour. The surface of the painting is smooth, creating a dreamy and almost surreal atmosphere. Look closely at the way Roerich painted the mountains in the background, which he rendered in soft, muted tones. The overall effect is one of tranquility and harmony. The figures, on the other hand, appear as solid black shapes. This contrast makes the viewer think about the relationship between humans and nature. Roerich's interest in spiritual and mystical themes is evident throughout his oeuvre. He invites us to contemplate the mysteries of the universe and our place within it, but he also reminds me a little of Milton Avery, which, to me, shows how modern painting can be found in very strange places. It’s all connected, you see?