Galo 1977

Aldemir Martins made this print, Galo, likely a screen print, and wow, is it ever bold! Look at how the colors and shapes create the sense of a rooster without ever feeling overly representational. For me, the shapes seem to dance on the surface, and the longer you look, the more the artwork comes to life. The way Martins layers simple forms of blue, red, yellow and green really activates the space. There is an almost musical quality to the composition. I am especially drawn to the dots that descend from the legs, as if tracking time or rhythm. In some ways, his approach reminds me of Matisse, particularly in how he uses flat, vibrant colors to create a sense of depth and movement. But Martins brings his own unique sensibility, blending folk art traditions with modern abstraction. You know, art’s all about conversation, and Martins' work definitely keeps it going. It is not about finding one right answer but embracing the many possibilities that art offers.