The Raft of the Medusa 2009

Alexander Roitburd's "The Raft of the Medusa" uses oil paint to reinterpret a historical event through a contemporary lens. This painting isn't just about the image, it's about the physical act of applying paint, a process central to its meaning. Roitburd lays down thick impasto, creating texture across the canvas that capture the viewer's attention. Look closely, and you'll notice how the qualities of oil paint, its viscosity and its ability to hold a mark, are fully exploited. The artist uses this traditional medium to build up layers of meaning, with each brushstroke adding to the narrative. The labor-intensive application mirrors the effort involved in creating any artwork, and this materiality is part of a wider commentary on the cultural significance of painting. The abacus, the vase, the turtles, and the figure are all made from the same material. This piece challenges the familiar distinctions between high art and craft, and offers a contemporary take on an historical event.