Art Exhibition in Venezuela Features Premonitory Works, Now Dedicated to Earthquake Victims

An art exhibition in Venezuela, "Preview: mutaciones de una transición," is drawing attention for its seemingly premonitory themes, with many works reflecting events that have recently occurred in the country. The exhibition, held at the Centro de Arte Los Galpones until September 27, features over 200 pieces by 50 artists, curated by José Luis García R.

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I noticed this characteristic of the works to preview future situations or to pose situations through metaphor, dreamlike states, or not-so-literal situations, which then materialize. There is a capacity for artists to anticipate situations. I imagine it's due to the vulnerability they present, which reality then surpasses.

García, an artist, curator, and museographer, noticed that many pieces in his collection seemed to anticipate future situations through metaphor, dreamlike imagery, or less literal representations. He decided to organize an exhibition to explore these elements, which has since gained a new layer of significance due to recent national events, including bombings and seismic activity.

"I noticed this characteristic of the works to preview future situations or to pose situations through metaphor, dreamlike states, or not-so-literal situations, which then materialize. There is a capacity for artists to anticipate situations. I imagine it's due to the vulnerability they present, which reality then surpasses," García explained. Many pieces in the exhibition feature references to cracks, collapses, or fissures, which resonate with the devastating earthquakes that struck Caracas and La Guaira on June 24.

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I was the most surprised, especially with the theme of the title, because everything was ready months ago.

The exhibition was particularly impacted by the death of artist Onai Quiñónez, whose work "Cuando caen las bombas, cae el decoro" (When the bombs fall, decorum falls) is featured. Quiñónez died in La Guaira following the earthquakes. The exhibition is now dedicated to him, other victims of the tragedy, and the rescuers. "After what happened, we decided to dedicate the exhibition to Onai Quiñónez, an artist who is a fundamental part of the show and who, in a way, gave me clues for the title of the exhibition due to the premonitory nature of a work he had created," said García.

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After what happened, we decided to dedicate the exhibition to Onai Quiñónez, an artist who is a fundamental part of the show and who, in a way, gave me clues for the title of the exhibition due to the premonitory nature of a work he had created.