Qalbi de Cirta, 2024

Andy Berrend  

This painting blends elements of surrealist art and cubism with a bold use of color and form. At the center of the work is an exaggeratedly disproportionate face, with an oversized eye that seems to be intently observing the viewer. Green tears flowing beneath this eye add emotional depth, contrasting with the bright palette. The contours of the face are outlined with black strokes, accentuating the angular features. The bright colors, primarily hues of pink, purple, and blue, infuse the work with vibrant energy. The deliberate choice of these vibrant colors creates a dialogue between the emotion expressed and the playful aesthetic. On the right, a strange, crowned bird is juxtaposed with the face, introducing a fantastical dimension. Its presence prompts reflection on the realm of imagination. On the other side, a small figure, also crowned, suggests a mysterious narrative, leaving room for the viewer's personal interpretation. The swirling background, with its lavender hues mixed with darker shades, evokes spatial depth, while the bold use of texture gives the painting a tactile dimension. This exuberant work challenges the conventions of representation, inviting the audience to explore the boundaries between dream and reality.