Cut the rug 

Nigel Van Wieck’s painting, ‘Cut the Rug’, seems to have been made using traditional oil on canvas. The artist's confident brushstrokes work to animate the scene, portraying a lively dance, with a band playing and audience watching. It is the texture, weight, and colors that give the artwork its energy, from the dark stage in the foreground, to the dancers in full swing, to the subtle details such as facial expressions and movement. The painting’s texture adds depth and movement to the scene, reflecting the energy of the dance. Van Wieck’s work draws on a well-established painting tradition to depict popular culture. Through his use of materials and techniques, he captures the vibrancy of the dance, inviting viewers to experience the energy and joy of the moment. By focusing on making and context, we gain a deeper understanding of Van Wieck’s artistic vision and how he challenges traditional distinctions between high art and everyday life.