Hairy Locomotion 

Remedios Varo created this enigmatic painting, "Hairy Locomotion," during her exile in Mexico. The painting's blend of dreamlike imagery and precise technique invites us to consider the cultural and intellectual currents that shaped her unique vision. Varo, a Spanish-born artist who fled Europe during World War II, found herself among a vibrant community of surrealist exiles in Mexico. This work showcases her distinctive style, combining elements of surrealism, science fiction, and esoteric symbolism. The bearded figures, suspended in mid-air by their own hair, challenge conventional notions of movement and gravity. Are they escaping something, or searching for something? Note how the architectural setting, with its arched doorways and tiled floor, creates a sense of both enclosure and possibility. To understand Varo's art fully, we can turn to the history of surrealism, the impact of war and exile on artists, and the rich cultural landscape of mid-20th century Mexico. "Hairy Locomotion" offers a fascinating glimpse into the mind of an artist grappling with the complexities of her time.