In the dark reflection of a mysterious looking glass, the gazes of Elizabeth I of England and Moctezuma II of Mexico-Tenochtitlan met. This historic encounter marked the emergence of Empire as a destructive force that unleashed unprecedented violence into the world, a legacy we still witness today. This black mirror, now treasured at the British Museum, holds the power to move, reveal itself, and manifest predictions and omens.
The origins of injustice are often concealed in history, and understanding today’s violence requires us to revisit the memory of the past. Omens of Empire signal the potential for violence. However, violence is not limited to physical brutality or the annihilation of individuals. True violence lies in betraying our essence and disrupting our continuity, committing actions that prevent us from recognizing ourselves in the future and destroy any possibility of action. Violence is accepting that abuse is natural and part of our DNA, that art is exempt from responsibility, and that aesthetics can substitute ethics. This fall in Puebla, Mexico, the black mirror will manifest again. Will we dare to look at our reflection?
Arquetopia is celebrating its 15th anniversary with the contemporary art exhibition “Omens of Empire” (Presagios de Imperio) by Francisco Guevara, a visual artist, curator, and independent scholar. The exhibition was curated by art historian Emmanuel Ortega and the exhibition design was by Quetzalina Sánchez, both prominent figures in their field. Omens of Empire presents a series of questions about violence, encapsulated in the vibrant colors of cochineal and indigo, the iridescent beauty of feathers, and the incomparable gleam of silver and precious gems. Each piece interweaves imperial history with the contemporary experience of the viewer, prompting us to question the role of forgetfulness in the production of modern knowledge.
Join us this fall in Puebla, Mexico, to witness this thought-provoking exhibition that challenges our understanding of history, violence, and the power of art. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to reflect on our past and its impact on our present and future.
Gallery Opening Information:
The exhibition opens on August 9, 2024, from 7 pm to 10 pm at GARCO Galería, Calle 2 Oriente 1402, Barrio de la Luz, Puebla, Pue. 72377, Mexico. The exhibition continues through September 7, 2024.
For more information visit franciscoguevara.art
