Simple things and metaphysical still life in Moscow art of the 1960s and 1970s

Abstract

The article examines the issue of artists from diverse backgrounds exploring the theme of “simple things” through still life paintings during the 1960s–1970s. Typically, each artistic style is evaluated in isolation from the wider artistic process. However, the author employs still life artwork as a case study to track how the challenges of that period were translated in the work of artists from the official sphere, the austere movement, and various underground movements.

Simple things naturally drew attention after almost three decades of thematic painting dominating in Soviet art. In the Thaw period, small genres, where expression of a personal worldview wasn't hampered by larger themes, gained appreciation.

This article analyses the approach to still life featuring simple objects by V.F. Stozharov, A.V. Vasnetsov, O.Y. Rabin, M.A. Roginsky, A.B. Grositsky, V.G. Veisberg and D.M. Krasnopevtsev.

It is evident that V.F. Stozharov, a member of the official circle of artists, focuses on expressing the national character through Old Russian life objects. A.V. Vasnetsov, on the other hand, conveys the atmosphere of homely warmth in his still lifes, which was highly valued during that era. M.A. Roginsky is an underground artist whose work defies categorization. Through depictions of everyday life in the aftermath of war, Roginsky exhibits a deep understanding of the foundations of Russian society without resorting to criticism, mockery, or excessive enthusiasm. V.G. Veisberg and D.M. Krasnopevtsev embodied the key positions of the metaphysical trend within the underground still life genre, focused on existential worldviews.

This demonstrates how still life not only resurfaces as an important artistic genre but also proves to be a diverse enough form to express a range of positions and issues in its contemporary era, with everyday objects acting as their metaphors.