Delirio. From The series Buscando Mamá., 2001

Celso Castro  

From The series Buscando Mamá. One of a kind photo collage. Sheet Size: 39.5 in. H x 27.5 in. W Signed, titled and dated by the artist.

The root of these unique photographic works by the artist Celso Castro occurred when the artist returned from Italy to live back in Colombia in 1987.

Castro wanted to produce from the photographs he took with his camera larger versions of those pieces, but having only registered his models with a single photograph it was impossible to achieve, given this need he adopts the language of fractionation completing the message he wants to transmit through his work.

Castro perfected his technique throughout the years, now on he takes numbers of photographs of his subject, which are then assembled to conform a unique photo collage without distortion of the main image, gluing all the images on a single sheet of archival paper, the final work consisted of the perfect graduation of many photographs to achieve his monumental man.

This artwork presents an intriguing collage that combines classical and modern elements in a striking juxtaposition. Set against a minimalistic white background, the composition centers on a series of overlapping photographs with a warm, yellowish tint. Featured prominently is a male nude figure, posed with an air of contemplative vulnerability. Intermixed with the contemporary image are classical busts—one of a serene female and another of an expressive, bearded male—as well as a small artistic palette, suggesting a dialogue between past artistic traditions and present-day realities. The fragmented, layered arrangement evokes a sense of temporal and spatial disruption, while the bold contrasts create a dynamic visual tension. This piece captivates by exploring themes of identity, artistic legacy, and the continuum of human expression. Its inventive assembly challenges traditional aesthetics, encouraging viewers to ponder the relationships between art, history, and self-awareness.