Composition sur fond ardoise 

Andre Lanskoy made this painting, "Composition sur fond ardoise" with oil paint, applied with brushes of different sizes. The title translates to "Composition on a Slate Background" which immediately draws our attention to the materials and their influence on the work. Oil paint allows for layering, blending, and a range of textures, from smooth gradients to thick impasto. The foundation of the painting imitates the rough, matte texture of slate, setting a somber, industrial tone. Lanskoy applied vibrant colors—reds, whites, and oranges—in a bold and energetic manner, contrasting with the muted background. The painting suggests a tension between control and spontaneity, planning and chance. The labor involved is evident in each brushstroke, each layer carefully considered yet freely applied. Paying attention to these artistic and material choices deepens our understanding and appreciation, questioning the traditional hierarchy between art and craft.