Earth is a man

Mediums: oil, canvas.
Location: the Chicago Institute of the Arts (the USA).

This painting is dedicated to the memory of the artist’s friend, poet Federico Garcia Lorca, who was killed during the Spanish Civil War. In this moving picture, the author applied a unique technique of erasing paint already applied to the canvas, which helped him achieve the effect of translucent energy waves penetrating the work of art. The Earth’s surface in the picture is presented in the form of a molten bright yellow substance resembling lava and symbolizing constant struggle and tension. The motif of the volcano, which is found in several more significant works by Matta during that period, was inspired by his journey to Mexico, where he witnessed an impressive eruption.