Untitled 2022

This untitled drawing was made by Alevtyna Kakhidze using bold, graphic strokes of black, red, and blue, punctuated with bursts of yellow. The artist's hand feels so present here! It's like she's thinking aloud, setting down images and words as they come to her. I can imagine Kakhidze’s process, quickly mapping out scenes and phrases in response to current events. Look at how the lines are thick and confident, yet the composition has a raw, spontaneous quality. The simple figures and text float on the white ground, creating a visual field of associations and connections. The different color splashes add to the emotional intensity of the piece. The drawing reminds me of other artists who use direct, unedited mark-making to convey urgent messages such as the work of Faith Ringgold. Artists are always building upon the work of their peers. I think Kakhidze's work speaks to the power of art as a tool for reflection, protest, and communication. It reminds us that painting is an evolving language, with each artist adding their own unique voice to the conversation.