Why Steve Roth’s New Exhibit at AS220 Is a Must-See This May

Ballet and economics rarely share the same stage, but artist Steve Roth unites them in his latest exhibition, Game Theory v. Ballet, opening this May at AS220 in Providence. Through a striking visual narrative, Roth explores the intersection of movement, strategy, and disability, offering a deeply personal yet universally resonant experience.

At the heart of his work stands a ballerina – both a symbol of grace and a testament to struggle. These qualities define not only dance but also life with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), a progressive neurological disorder. Roth pairs this imagery with game theory, a branch of microeconomics that examines decision-making in evolving conditions. This fusion creates a compelling commentary on adaptation, resilience, and identity. “My Deaf identity naturally shows up in my work,” Roth says, “but this exhibit focuses on the experience of living with CMT.”

The exhibition’s centerpiece, “Curriculum Vitae,” chronicles the progression of disability from its onset to its later stages. Surrounding it, approximately 75 additional pieces expand on these themes, supported by a visual and written lexicon that guides viewers through the work.

Roth’s artistic journey began as a search for authenticity. “I set out to find my most authentic self, and five years later, I arrived at painting. I haven’t stopped since.” Over time, his work has evolved into a layered exploration of symbolism, game theory, and personal narrative, inviting audiences into his world.

A recurring motif in his work, the blackbird, carries dual meanings. Featured on his exhibition flyers, the bird marks the number of solo shows he has completed, with this being his fourth. Within his artwork, blackbirds accompany the ballerina, symbolizing both the inevitable progression of CMT and the stories carried forward through movement and sound.

As Roth prepares to share his work with the Providence arts community, he hopes audiences walk away with a renewed perspective on their own narratives. “We spend so much time consuming content. What if we focused more on creating, sharing, and truly connecting instead?” Learn more at AS220.org or visit Roth’s website at StevePaint.com.