Historically, artists and artisans have harnessed the richness of natural pigments for their expressive creations. The age-old practice of extracting dyes from organic materials is not just a craft but a profound cultural heritage that spans various civilizations, particularly in Mesoamerica. Despite the threats posed by colonial influences and modernity, many artists strive to keep these age-old traditions alive.
One such artist is Omar Mendoza, whose latest exhibition Serpiente Solar 〰 Noche Obsidiana (Solar Serpent 〰 Obsidian Night) currently resides at Povos in Chicago. His art emerges from a deep respect for ancestral wisdom, utilizing colors derived from local flora, tree bark, and plants gathered from his fatherâs hometown, along with pigments procured from surrounding markets. Through this process, Mendoza’s artwork symbolizes a form of cultural resilience.
The visual language of Mendozaâs paintings conjures a sense of cosmic strength and sacred cadence. Each piece connects celestial and earthly realms, filled with symbols representing insight and knowledge, such as stars, planets, serpents, eagles, and lush vines.
In her curatorial commentary, Victoria Rivers notes the philosophy behind Mendozaâs work:
“Omar Mendoza creates these pieces from a cosmovision where everything is interconnected: water, stone, plants, fire, night. Within this sacred web, painting transforms into an act of gratitude towards the earth and its natural cycles.”
Many of Mendozaâs artworks exhibit a striking symmetry that reflects the balance between dual worlds. His stunning application of colorsâpinks, blues, violets, and yellowsâbrushes against hand-prepared canvases in a sumptuous interplay, evoking a transcendent harmony that resonates with the cyclical energy inherent in nature.
The exhibition Serpiente Solar 〰 Noche Obsidiana will grace the galleries starting October 4 in Chicago. Dive deeper into Mendoza’s artistry by following him on Instagram.
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