Yellowstone (fragmento) 2015

Curator: Requena Nozal’s, "Yellowstone (fragmento)", crafted in 2015 with a mixed media approach that prominently features acrylic paint. My immediate reaction is pure energy. A sense of raw, almost volcanic emotion. Editor: It strikes me as a bold expression of color, an exuberant clash between order and chaos. The artist definitely seems to be channeling abstract expressionism and perhaps a hint of fauvism, right? It feels unconstrained and vibrant, particularly how the reds and yellows dominate the foreground. Curator: It's interesting that you say that; while these movements are certainly visible within Nozal’s influences, in many ways Nozal, along with other abstract painters, attempt to move painting beyond the legacy of American abstract expressionism as a cold war tool for the state. This painting could be a testament to this artistic re-politicization, Editor: Expand on that? Curator: These colours aren't arbitrary. They carry symbolic weight. We should remember that abstract expressionism became viewed in an official setting to be an art 'proper' of democracy, a style of freedom in contrast to Soviet Socialist Realism. So you are spot on: we're observing color but not with innocence. Editor: So we look at the materiality. I appreciate that the "fragmento" in the title suggests that it's only a part of something larger, and the acrylic medium here grants an immediate texture and depth that enhances its vivid impact. Also, the gold leaf here brings a real richness into play as well... How would you say that relates to some larger sociopolitical context, perhaps? Curator: Perhaps here it suggests at wealth, capital, ownership, something that's desired - a certain American freedom of a golden future maybe? But the gesture and title seem at odds. Here, 'Yellowstone' itself takes on added importance - the sublime power of a landscape, something beautiful yet simultaneously deeply fragile. Editor: I’m picking up what you’re laying down - a critical engagement! This painting might therefore function as both a visually striking, deeply considered artwork, but it prompts urgent and very necessary dialogue in today's landscape, too. Curator: Exactly! By examining it through its social origins, we’re encouraged to challenge established views and broaden its reception. Editor: An abstract landscape, truly embedded in complex dialogues - color, the environment and all!