Figures with Pipes 1978

Carlos Merida made 'Figures with Pipes' using pastel in 1978. The composition presents us with a fractured yet harmonious arrangement of figures, pipes and blocks of space. Shades of blue, brown, gold, and black are delineated with sharp lines. These visual elements evoke a sense of geometric abstraction. Merida's approach to form destabilizes established meanings in art. His choice of pastel, combined with his application technique, results in a textured surface that interacts with light in subtle ways. The pipes themselves are not just objects but symbolic lines connecting the figures, suggesting hidden relationships. The interplay between foreground and background further challenges our perception of depth and space. In essence, it's not just a representation of figures playing pipes. It is a thoughtful exploration of form and meaning, inviting us to question our assumptions about art.