Ornitology 2010

Andrey Remnev painted Ornitology with oils, likely in the early 21st century. The materials themselves – oil paint on canvas – might seem traditional, but Remnev's technique gives them an unexpected twist. Look at the almost metallic sheen of the figure’s dress, and the surreal details of the composition. This isn't just representational painting, but rather a kind of theatrical fabrication. The painting's rich details call attention to the skilled labor involved in its creation. The meticulous brushwork and attention to detail suggest a lengthy, dedicated process. But Remnev complicates this reverence for craft by inserting the motif of mass-produced, decorative tassels. The way these elements are combined challenges distinctions between high art and design. Ultimately, Ornitology invites us to consider how the language of craft can be redeployed in unexpected ways. The artist asks us to look beyond technique, into the space where skill meets imagination.