Ángela Ferrari’s works delve into themes of aggression and power struggles, depicting scenes filled with tension and conflict. The Argentinian artist explores the dynamics of control through vivid paintings that feature dogs, horses, and birds engaged in acts of antagonism. In her latest series, titled They Shoot Horses, Don’t They?, Ferrari continues to examine the delicate balance between life and death.
The paintings in this collection range from small, intimate pieces that capture fleeting moments of confrontation to large-scale works that amplify the intensity of the struggles depicted. One such painting, “Aurora,” spans nearly 12 feet and showcases a diverse array of birds in various states of aggression and vulnerability against a dramatic sky backdrop.
Ferrari’s signature style, which she describes as “grotesque-passionate baroque,” is evident in these new works, where vibrant colors, rich textures, and dynamic compositions come together to create a sense of heightened drama. Flowers, feathers, and other symbolic elements add layers of meaning to the narratives unfolding in each painting.
Unlike her earlier works, which often featured indoor settings, the pieces in They Shoot Horses, Don’t They? are set entirely in the wild, placing the violence and suffering front and center. By confronting viewers with the raw intensity of predator-prey relationships, Ferrari prompts us to question the nature of dominance and the consequences of unchecked aggression.
The exhibition, which takes its title from the 1969 film by Sydney Pollack, invites us to consider the inherent brutality of the natural world and the complex interplay of power dynamics among animals. Through her intricate and evocative paintings, Ferrari challenges us to confront the darker aspects of our own nature and reflect on the impact of our actions on the world around us.
They Shoot Horses, Don’t They? is currently on display at Povos in Chicago until December 14th. To see more of Ángela Ferrari’s captivating work, visit her Instagram profile.
