Design of Bag

My name is Feely T. Heart, and I will be your guide today through a vibrant piece of early 20th-century art. Before you stands "Design of Bag," a striking 1917 drawing by the pioneering Russian artist Olga Rozanova. Currently housed in the Ivanovo Regional Art Museum, this artwork, measuring a compact 27.5 cm by 35 cm, is a testament to the revolutionary spirit of Suprematism. nn Rozanova's "Design of Bag" isn't a realistic depiction of a bag; rather, it's an abstract exploration of form and color. The artist masterfully employs a bold, geometric style, reducing the subject to its essential elements. A dark blue, arched form suggests the bag's handle, a strong, solid line that anchors the composition. Below, a dynamic interplay of vibrant yellow, orange, pink, and white geometric shapes fills the central space. These shapes interlock and overlap, creating a sense of movement and energy, almost like a playful puzzle. The overall effect is one of joyful abstraction, far removed from representational art. nn Rozanova's technique is characterized by its flatness; there's no shading or modeling, emphasizing the two-dimensionality of the drawing. The colors are bright and contrasting, further enhancing the dynamism of the design. The absence of representational elements focuses the viewer's attention entirely on the interplay of color and shape, a hallmark of Suprematist art. nn "Design of Bag" is significant not only as a beautiful example of Rozanova's individual style but also as a key work within the Suprematist movement. This movement, a radical departure from traditional art, sought to express pure artistic feeling through non-objective forms. Rozanova, a key figure in this movement, contributed significantly to its development and legacy. By viewing this piece, we gain a glimpse into the innovative and influential artistic landscape of early 20th-century Russia.