Woman in Grey 1980

Alexander Bogen’s ‘Woman in Grey’ is painted with oils on canvas, a traditional fine art medium. The textured brushwork and the material qualities of the paint are apparent. Notice how the visible strokes create a sense of depth and movement, building up the figure and imbuing it with a tangible presence. The heavy brushstrokes and layering of color also create areas of impasto, where the paint stands up in relief, giving the surface a tactile quality. The expressive, almost sculptural application of paint shows Bogen’s mastery of the medium. The bold color palette, including greys, reds, and blues, also plays an important role. These colours do not necessarily mimic reality, but rather create a mood and convey emotion. By emphasizing the materiality of paint and the act of its application, Bogen elevated the process of painting itself, drawing attention to the artist’s hand and the creative act. He reminds us of the importance of skilled practice, placing this artwork within a rich lineage of artistic and aesthetic production, and challenging the traditional hierarchy between art and craft.