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Sebastián Hidalgo’s (Mexico, 1985) work exhibits a pictorial quality of a metaphysical nature, in which different conceptual, sensorial and dreamlike planes converge. In line with the definition set forth by renowned Greek-Italian artist Giorgio de Chirico (1888 – 1978) it is possible to identify three fundamental elements within Hidalgo’s work that situate it within this narrative: the superposition and disruption of forms and characters, an ironic distancing from the represented scenarios, and lastly, the enigmatic and poetic quality of the elements that make up his work. This premise materializes through the pieces that are presented in Partículas —the first exhibition at Ambar Quijano’s gallery— inspired by the artist’s rich dream life.
The exhibition is composed of two different moments. The first comprised of a set of oil paintings that synthesize simplified forms both pictorially and conceptually. These paintings, endowed with narrative qualities, depict the convergence of two relevant moments from the artist’s coming and going: on the one hand his overnight trips between Cholula and Puebla and on the other the dreams and thoughts that arise and expand while in his home and studio. The first pieces we encounter offer up a look at the outside world through scenes that take place at night and in which both vehicles and pedestrians move collectively, though each immersed in their own particular universe. These canvases highlight the interactions between the individual and the collective, making references to both the tangible and subjective. Consequently, the artist seeks to build bridges between divergent realities and reconcile internal and external worlds through his works.
With a genuine interest in eclecticism, Hidalgo incorporates diverse visual languages without preconceived hierarchies into his works. His references range from quotidian elements such as street signs and caricatures, to the formal and historic visual languages he’s learned throughout his artistic career. Additionally, he also incorporates archaic and contemporary influences, gaining an understanding of language through the forms themselves. The diversity of these influences enriches and makes his visual narratives more complex, giving his works an enigmatic and poetic quality.
“Velo Atómico” (2024) –which arises from drawing as well as dot and line exercises– acts as the culminating piece and epilogue of the show. Materializing a veil in constant movement that is composed of interrelated nodes and reflects upon the visible particles from which reality originates. This work synthesizes the common threads that are present throughout Hidalgo’s practice: the fusion of seemingly antagonistic elements and the exploration of alternate states of consciousness that transcend the borders of perception.
Throughout this exhibition and similarly to the artists of the metaphysical movement, Sebastián Hidalgo creates a universe in which polarities merge and waking dreams become a solemn reality. His canvases act as meditative portals that explore states of consciousness, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the limitless potential of imagination as well as embody the very rhythms of the human psyche.
Text by Alberto Ríos de la Rosa
Learn more about Sebastián Hidalgo: here.
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