Feast of the Rosary 2015

Alexander Roitburd created "Feast of the Rosary" using oil on canvas. Roitburd’s artistic journey was deeply intertwined with Ukraine's turbulent transition after the collapse of the Soviet Union. In this stark painting, two nude female figures stand face to face, connected by an abstract, arching form above their heads. Their gaze suggests a silent exchange or confrontation, a negotiation of shared space and perhaps shared identity. Their bodies, rendered with raw honesty, seem vulnerable, set against a muted background, which adds to the piece's emotional weight. Roitburd, who was also an activist, consistently challenged the norms of both the Soviet and post-Soviet art scenes. His works often explore themes of cultural identity, political commentary, and the human condition, inviting viewers to question the established narratives and power structures. The artwork serves as a mirror reflecting not only personal experiences but also broader societal struggles of those living in times of conflict.