Exploring the world opened up by a work of art
This week’s showcase:
Nikolai Atanassov
“Last Days of the World” Oil on canvas, 70″ x 207″
Spoiler Alert! Isolation Mandate to End on “The Last Days of the World.”
In the Apocalypse According to Nikolai Atanassov, his painting brings all humanity together melded in a sea of vibrant Turner-esque light. No one is left behind and no one is Isolated. Up close we are all present, yet from a distance indistinguishable, just one glorious abstract.
And there was light and color and an over-abundance of oil paint on the last day, and He saw all that He had made and it was very good.
Many of you have seen this painting in the Gallery. It dominates the space, exuding an unequaled energy. The painting’s sheer scale reminds me of the Sistine Chapel; and its stained glass elements, of the Chartres Cathedral. And like these heavenly portals, Nikolai’s painting seeks to open a world that lies beyond our own. Even beyond our imagination. Which is no small feat, even for Nikolai.
Believer or not . . . the Afterlife is calling and has never looked quite so Divine.
Paul Mahder
Director