Zulia, Zulia, Zulia 2015

Editor: Here we have Beatriz González’s "Zulia, Zulia, Zulia," created in 2015 using acrylic on canvas. The painting depicts silhouetted figures carrying dark, rectangular shapes, giving off a sense of collective burden, perhaps even mourning. How do you interpret this work, considering its context? Curator: Considering González’s body of work, especially her engagement with violence and displacement in Colombia, this piece can be seen as a powerful commentary on collective trauma. The repeated figures carrying what appear to be heavy burdens might represent the endless cycle of suffering and resilience in the face of political turmoil. Does the repetition strike you as rhythmic or perhaps more relentlessly oppressive? Editor: Oppressive is the word that comes to mind. The figures are anonymous, almost ghostlike, and that amplifies the feeling that it could be anyone, anywhere, carrying this weight. Is there a particular historical event that resonates with this work? Curator: While not tied to a specific event, it echoes the broader narratives of displacement and loss experienced by many communities affected by conflict. González often uses a stark, almost cartoonish style to address very serious issues, forcing us to confront uncomfortable truths. How does her choice of such simplified forms impact the emotional weight of the piece for you? Editor: I think the simplification is effective. It universalizes the experience of grief and struggle, making it accessible and immediate. It feels like a constant, ongoing act. Curator: Exactly. It moves beyond individual stories to touch on systemic issues of power and historical memory. Understanding this artwork through that lens is critical to appreciating its profound social critique. What will you take away from this discussion? Editor: Definitely the understanding of González’s broader project – using simple forms to explore complex issues of political violence. I'll be more attentive to the art's ability to address difficult, shared experiences. Curator: And I'm reminded again of art's essential role in processing and giving voice to collective trauma. It provides a crucial space for remembrance and resistance.