Russian Painting 1984

“Russian Painting” is an installation constructed by Roberto Chabet, an influential figure in the development of conceptual art in the Philippines. Chabet made this piece from plywood and paint. His work emerged in the post-colonial period, during a time when Filipino artists were grappling with questions of national identity. Chabet often used simple, industrial materials to create works that defied traditional notions of beauty and challenged established artistic norms. This particular piece features a series of wooden geometric forms, seemingly scattered along the wall. What does it mean for this work to be titled "Russian Painting?" Is he referencing Russian Constructivism? Or maybe critiquing it? Chabet's installations encourage viewers to question how meaning is constructed and to consider the social and political contexts that shape our understanding of art. “Russian Painting” invites us to reflect on the ways in which art can challenge existing power structures.