Nothing Is What It Seems II 2013

Paulo Tercio's "Nothing Is What It Seems II" presents a deceptive simplicity through its vibrant flowers arranged in a patterned vase. The flowers, bold in their redness, immediately draw our eye, yet their abstract forms resist immediate recognition. Flowers have long symbolized transient beauty and the cycle of life, often appearing in vanitas paintings as reminders of mortality. Here, however, the abstraction complicates this symbolism. The vase, adorned with diamond-like patterns, suggests a container of precious things. This geometric motif echoes across cultures, from ancient textiles to modern designs, often signifying protection and balance. Consider how the symbolic weight of flowers and geometric patterns has evolved. From ancient religious rituals to modern-day aesthetics, these symbols persist. The emotional power of Tercio's painting lies in its ability to evoke a sense of familiarity while challenging our perceptions. The interplay of recognizable yet distorted forms creates tension. The title itself, "Nothing Is What It Seems II," acts as a prompt, urging us to delve deeper into the image's layers of meaning.