Culver City,
California
x
Maker: Muzenov, A.V.
We'll Master the Great Theory
Date Made: 1989
Country: Soviet Union
Method: Tempera paint on fiberboard
Measurements: 60 cm x 90 cm; 23 5/8 in x 35 7/16 in
This painting portrays the typical side profile pictures of Marx, Engels, Lenin and Stalin, which was widely visible in the USSR. However, the viewers can see that instead of having Stalin’s profile right next Lenin, Stalin’s face has been cut out and only his empty silhouette stands next to Lenin’s face. Rather than admiring Marx, Engels, Lenin and Stalin together, the artist purposely misplaces Stalin’s head by putting his profile upside down and away from the previous three profiles. The text below says, “We’ll Master the Great Theory,” which is referring to the theory of Marxist-Leninism. Marxist-Leninism was based on the teachings of Marx, Engels and Lenin and later was proclaimed as the state ideology during Stalin’s regime. However, whether Stalin actually followed this theory is up for debate and this poster demonstrates this argument. Stalin as seen by most people didn’t adhere to the theory; hence, he cannot be admired like the three, Marx, Engels and Lenin. The artist’s critique of Stalin is again emphasized at the bottom of poster, where the names of the four leaders are written in print form. The first three names of Marx, Engels and Lenin are written regularly, but just like Stalin’s profile, Stalin’s name is written upside down.
Accession Number: 2009.053.107
Item Name: Painting
Credit Line: The Ferris Russian Collection, Donated by Tom and Jeri Ferris
Collection/Series: The Ferris Russian Collection, Donated by Tom and Jeri Ferris