Title: Ecuadorian War
Technique: Oil on Canvas
Size: 1.50 meters x 1.50 meters
Technique: Oil on Canvas
Size: 1.50 meters x 1.50 meters
The striking Ecuadorian War painting by Patricio Jijón showcases an amalgamation of eclectic themes and vibrant colors. The piece, rendered with oil on canvas, measures 1.50 meters x 1.50 meters.
At first glance, the painting depicts a Michael Jackson look-alike from Manabi with a sound plug in his ear, being plugged by an Ecuadorian honeybird. The feathered creature is, in turn, plugged into an Ecuadorian war stereo vinyl player, which appears to be powered by a group of Ecuadorian Pinocchios in wheelchairs.
Amidst this surrealistic amalgamation of imagery, a background narrative unfolds, revealing an Ecuadorian Amazonian tribal leader under attack by aboriginal lanzas in a pollos bodega. The artist expertly juxtaposes the whimsical and the ominous, creating a tapestry of themes and ideas that draw the viewer into a world of Ecuadorian cultural symbolism.
These Pinocchios are not only a whimsical element of the artwork but also represent Ecuador's greatest minds, such as astronauts, NASA members, mathematicians, and other unknown yet amazing creative individuals. Jijón's decision to incorporate these figures into the painting adds another layer of depth to the artwork, highlighting the importance of Ecuador's intellectual and creative contributions to the world.
The Ecuadorian War painting is a testament to Jijón's skill as an artist and his ability to create a multi-layered narrative that is both thought-provoking and visually stunning. It is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of Ecuadorian cultural symbolism through the lens of contemporary art.