Resilience in Red

Resilience in Red:Unveiling Rogelio Manzo's "Red Turban Woman I"

Galerie Sept is thrilled to present an avant-premiere of Rogelio Manzo's compelling work, "Mujer con Turbante Rojo I" or "Red Turban Woman I" - a profound exemplification of modern portraiture that transcends traditional boundaries. Strikingly abstract yet subtly figurative, encapsulating Manzo's unique approach to portraiture that delves into the essence of his subjects rather than just their appearances.

Picture of Rogelio Manzo in his studio -  Mexico

Rogelio ManzoMexicanb. 1975Guadalajara, Mexicomore information

The artwork captures the viewer's attention with its bold use of red, a color often associated with passion and vitality, which is present in the form of a turban and scattered circles that could symbolize both the unity and isolation of the human experience. The underlying textures and materials create a palpable depth and richness, hinting at the complexity of the individual's character and history.Picture of the artwork (Red Turban Women I) - made by the artist, Rogelio Manzo

Mujer con Turbante Rojo I (Red Turban Woman I)by Rogelio Manzo244 x 182 x 7 cmmixed mediamore information

Manzo's work is deeply rooted in the concept of "Kintsugi," which values the beauty in the broken and repaired, suggesting that our imperfections contribute to our uniqueness and beauty. This philosophy is evident in the way the portrait's features are fragmented and reassembled, suggesting a narrative of resilience and the endurance of the human spirit.The description of Manzo's work indicates a blend of media, which is visible in the image where different textures and materials come together to form a cohesive whole. His use of unconventional materials, such as resin and metal panels, and techniques like stitching and image transfers, speaks to his innovative spirit and his refusal to be confined by traditional artistic conventions.

Details of the artwork (Red Turban Women I) - made by the artist, Rogelio Manzo

detailsmixed media*more information

*Oil, acrylic and vinyl paint, drypoint etching, handcrafted stonework sequence, image transfer, mono-typed silk organza, silk thread and copolymers on translucent acetate panel.

Manzo's art not only pleases aesthetically but also carries a deeper message that challenges the viewers to confront the injustices and fragility of life. The work is a visual exploration of the organic and synthetic, echoing our own biological complexities and our relationship with technology and artificiality. In this portrait, there's a palpable sense of the artist's hand, a deliberate move away from the perfection of machine-made art towards something that bears the mark of its creator. This aligns with Manzo's desire to have his "hand print embossed" on his work, thus ensuring a personal connection between the artist, the artwork, and the viewer.Details of the artwork (Red Turban Women I) - made by the artist, Rogelio Manzo

detailsmixed media*more information

*Oil, acrylic and vinyl paint, drypoint etching, handcrafted stonework sequence, image transfer, mono-typed silk organza, silk thread and copolymers on translucent acetate panel.

Rogelio Manzo's dedication to portraiture as a means to explore the human condition, with all its vulnerabilities and scars, is evident in this piece. His work invites us to consider the stories etched in our own "skin"— the life experiences that shape who we are.Lastly, the acclaim that Manzo has received, evidenced by his exhibitions and the collections in which his work is included, reflects the impact of his vision in the contemporary art world. His approach to portraiture has drawn comparisons to Francis Bacon, yet Manzo's work stands on its own, characterized by a distinct sense of modernity and a deeply personal touch. This artwork is a testament to his evolving journey in art, one that continues to push the boundaries of how we perceive and experience portraits.

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