Self Portrait 1973

Luchita Hurtado created this Self Portrait, an abstraction with yellows, reds, greys and black. Hurtado, born in Venezuela, lived a life immersed in art, moving amongst surrealist circles in post-war Paris and later in Mexico, before settling in California. Her life experiences undoubtedly shaped her artistic vision. While her work often defies easy categorization, it deeply resonates with themes of identity and the human connection to the earth. This geometric abstraction hints at Hurtado's interest in pattern, color, and form to express a sense of self. The ordered composition, with its interplay of lines and shapes, suggests an introspective exploration. While the portrait lacks a recognizable likeness, its vibrant energy and intricate structure speak to the complexity of human identity. Hurtado once said, "Painting is how I find myself." This artwork, in its abstract language, invites us to contemplate how identity can be expressed beyond conventional representation.