WRAPPED TANKS oil on paper 36 by 36in Valeri Larko

The composition presents two substantial cylindrical forms dominating the visual field. These structures appear to be industrial storage tanks, their metallic surfaces largely obscured by what seems to be a fabric wrapping. The material covering them is not uniformly applied; sections are pulled taut, revealing glimpses of the underlying metal, while other areas hang loosely, creating folds and shadows that soften the rigid geometry of the tanks themselves. A circular aperture is visible in one of the wrapped forms, suggesting an intentional disruption of the enveloping textile.
The color palette is restrained, primarily consisting of muted earth tones – ochre, beige, and grey – with a backdrop of a brick-red building. The light source appears to be coming from above and slightly to the left, casting shadows that emphasize the three-dimensionality of the tanks and their coverings. A small patch of vegetation grows at the base of the structures, introducing a touch of organic life into this otherwise industrial setting.
The artist’s choice to conceal the tanks with fabric introduces an element of ambiguity. The wrapping could be interpreted as a gesture of camouflage or protection, hinting at a desire to obscure the function and potential dangers associated with these industrial objects. Alternatively, it might signify a form of adornment, suggesting a playful engagement with the mundane and a questioning of how we perceive manufactured items.
The contrast between the hard, metallic forms of the tanks and the soft, pliable fabric creates visual tension. This juxtaposition invites reflection on themes of concealment versus revelation, industrialization versus nature, and perhaps even the relationship between art and everyday objects. The deliberate disruption of the wrapping – the exposed metal and the circular opening – further complicates this interplay, suggesting a resistance to complete obfuscation or a desire for interaction with the external environment. Ultimately, the work prompts consideration of how we assign meaning to industrial forms and the ways in which artistic intervention can alter our perception of them.