Expedition Aqua Aurea 

Editor: So, here we have Remedios Varo's work, "Expedition Aqua Aurea," created using coloured pencil. It has this fantastical feel, like a dreamscape. The people in the vehicle look quite solemn; the colours are muted and it gives off a mysterious vibe. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Varo uses imagery that whispers of alchemy and spiritual journeys, doesn’t she? Look at the vessel itself—a kind of floating sled carrying these robed figures. The sled evokes an age-old form of transport, like a collective memory. It pulls us into pondering what they seek, shrouded in snow and mist. The colour palette is important; gold often symbolizes spiritual enlightenment, and aqua references transformation. Are they alchemists searching for some golden elixir of life, or perhaps something more abstract? Editor: That’s an interesting interpretation. I noticed the elaborate headwear. Does that signify something as well? Curator: Absolutely! Consider the pointed hats: reminiscent of both wizards and the Ku Klux Klan robes, an odd conjunction but a clue to looking further afield. Their forms speak to wisdom-seeking, but also potentially to secrecy, prejudice or exclusion. Varo often explored hidden knowledge, but not always in a celebratory way. The symbols she employed have deep historical roots, even in some dark or obscure places. The goblet one figure carries hints at the pursuit of transformation, but could it be tainted? Editor: Wow, I hadn't considered the possible negative connotations. Curator: The symbols vibrate with layers of cultural memory. Even seemingly innocent colours hold immense meaning! Look closer and they invite you to engage with how signs evolve and endure over time. Editor: This piece is really amazing when we look at it this way. Thanks for opening my eyes to the symbolism. Curator: The magic lies in how these visual elements echo throughout human history! And also invite our imagination!