Mascara 

Ramon Oviedo’s painting presents us with a figure shrouded in darkness, its mask-like face emerging from the gloom. The mask, a primal symbol, echoes through history. We see it in ancient rituals, in Greek theatre, and in the carnival traditions of Europe. It is a veil, both concealing and revealing. In some cultures, masks summon spirits; in others, they mock the established order. Consider the commedia dell'arte, where masks embody archetypes of human folly. This mask, seemingly primitive, taps into a collective memory. Its crude features and stark contrast evoke a sense of unease, perhaps fear. As a motif, the mask undergoes constant reinvention. It can be a symbol of liberation, or oppression. Here, it serves as a conduit for raw emotion, engaging us on a subconscious level. The mask is not merely a static object but a dynamic symbol, reflecting the ever-shifting landscape of human experience. It resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings, reminding us of the cyclical nature of history and the enduring power of symbols.