Ballerina

Mediums: oil, canvas.
Location: The Perm State Art Gallery (Russia).

This early work reflects the author’s attempt to synthesize different European styles. Cubism is seen in the construction of the figure and the background with which it merges of geometric planes. The ballerina is depicted in motion (futurism) – she performs the fouetté turn standing on one leg, which makes her clothes fly around the torso, and her facial features are impossible to see – it is just a bright spot. Unexpected colour combinations – purple, interspersed with bright yellow, scarlet, blue and white – are a tribute to Expressionism. The artist used energetic and bold strokes, conveying the emotion of the dance.