West and East 1913

Pavel Filonov created this oil on canvas painting titled ‘West and East’ to explore ideas around cultural identity and the relationship between different regions. Made in Russia, the painting likely reflects the complex social and political dynamics of the early 20th century. The figures are stylized and somewhat distorted, which may represent the artist's critique of traditional artistic conventions. The faces of the fishermen are harsh and mask-like, which may be a reflection of Filonov’s Expressionist style, and perhaps indicative of the dehumanizing effects of industrialization. The title ‘West and East’ suggests a commentary on the cultural and economic differences between Russia and the West. The juxtaposition of these regions, and the fact they are together on a boat, may symbolize the tensions and interactions between them. Art historians delve into the cultural context of artworks like this, using archives and historical research to reveal the role of art in shaping and reflecting social realities.