Eleventh. Directed by Dziga Vetrov. (Stenberg V., Stenberg G.) Soviet Posters (1917-1941)

The composition presents a striking visual statement dominated by geometric forms and stark contrasts. A central figure, seemingly a man, is rendered in a highly stylized manner, his face fragmented into planes of red, black, and white. The features are simplified, almost reduced to essential shapes, conveying an impression of dynamism rather than individual character. Large, dark glasses obscure the eyes, creating a sense of anonymity or perhaps suggesting a detached observation of the world.
Flanking this central figure are vertical bands of yellow and blue, which serve as both framing devices and compositional anchors. These bands contribute to the overall feeling of controlled movement and visual tension. Within these bands, smaller images appear – a blurred depiction of machinery, possibly related to transportation or industry, is visible within the blue band. This inclusion suggests a connection between the individual and the larger forces of industrialization and progress.
The text Одиннадцатый (Eleventh) is prominently displayed in bold lettering, repeated across the composition. The repetition emphasizes its importance while simultaneously creating a visual rhythm that reinforces the overall sense of movement. A smaller inscription at the bottom identifies individuals as “автор-руководитель Дзига Вертов главный оператор Кауфман” (author-director Dziga Vertov chief cameraman Kaufman), acknowledging the creative team behind this work.
The color palette is deliberately limited and impactful, utilizing primary colors to maximize visual impact. The red evokes a sense of urgency or revolution, while the blue and yellow contribute to a feeling of modernity and technological advancement.
Subtly, the artwork seems to explore themes of identity in an age of rapid industrial change. The obscured face suggests a loss of individuality within a larger system, while the inclusion of machinery implies that technology is both shaping and observing humanity. The overall effect is one of controlled chaos – a visual representation of the energy and anxieties inherent in a period of significant social and technological transformation.