ABOUT THE WORK

Mario de Rivera has been described by art critic Alice Guillermo as a painter with “sumptuous imagery... showing the rich confluence of cultures” wherein “traditions comingle ... conveying the artist’s faith in the essential unity of humankind – that cultures from all parts of the globe participate in a universal discourse and contribute to commonly shared meanings.” As exhibited in this painting, De Rivera showcases an understanding and appreciation for Oriental heritage while combining Islamic cultural elements within a dense composition embellished with intricate ornamentation. Similar to his other works, this piece is marked by an intensely hued canvas and elaborate finery built up from layers of interconnected cultural elements. Quintessential elements from other cultures are organized into the canvas through the method of photo transfer on the print surface. The ornamental aspect of this work comes from a position of intense cultural consciousness marked with artistic cognizance. This work by De Rivera engages us not only with its intricate imagery but with a synthesis that gives a clue to our collective identity.