Revolution Edward Dwurnik (1943-)

The composition presents a scene of apparent upheaval and destruction, rendered in a style characterized by bold brushstrokes and a muted palette dominated by browns, grays, and blues. A central figure, powerfully built and clad in dark clothing, dominates the foreground. He wields an axe or similar tool with considerable force, seemingly directed towards a cluster of crosses positioned at the lower right of the canvas. These crosses are depicted as fragmented and unstable, contributing to the overall sense of chaos.
Behind this central figure, a crowd is visible, their forms indistinct and blurred, suggesting movement and collective action. They appear to be observing or participating in the event unfolding before them. The background reveals an urban landscape – buildings with rectangular windows rise behind the immediate scene, hinting at a societal structure being challenged or dismantled. A prominent archway punctuates the skyline, its form somewhat obscured by the surrounding structures and atmospheric haze.
The artist’s use of color reinforces the somber mood. The limited range of tones creates an atmosphere of oppression and struggle. The application of paint is vigorous and expressive; the visible brushstrokes contribute to a feeling of immediacy and raw emotion. Theres a deliberate lack of detail in many areas, which serves to emphasize the symbolic nature of the scene rather than its literal representation.
Subtly, the painting seems to explore themes of societal transformation and the dismantling of established beliefs or institutions. The destruction of the crosses suggests an attack on religious authority or traditional values. The central figure embodies a force of change, while the crowd represents the collective will driving this shift. The urban backdrop implies that these changes are occurring within a structured society, one now facing significant disruption. The title, visible in the lower right corner, provides a direct indication of the works subject matter: revolution – a period of dramatic and often violent upheaval.