Contemporary Arts
CRITIQUE PAPER
Submitted by:
Yuri kierby A. Ybañez
Cassandra Kate N. Fabiaña
Submitted to:
Michael T. Ruelo
Title of the art: La Barca de Aqueronte
Artist: Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo
Location: Lopez Museum and library
Year: 1887
Description:
La barca de Aqueronte is a Neoclassic-style painting based by Felix
Resurreccion Hidalgo made in 1887, on his reading of Dante’s Inferno
while in Italy. It is hidalgo’s interpretation of damned souls journeying
across the River Acheron towards the gates of hell or hades. This painting
shows the three principles of art like balance, emphasis and rhythm. The
“diagonal movement” on the left-side of the painting is described to be
subdued shades of pink and blue in “strong tension” with the right side of
the work of art. This portion of the painting is the steady “solitary form” in
black color going against the shimmering red backdrop. Measuring 80.65
cm x 108.59 cm, La barca de Aqueronte is a “companion piece” to
Hidalgo’s other painting, La Laguna Estigia (The River Styx).
Analysis:
La barca de Aqueronte” (“The Barque of Aqueronte”) is a painting by Felix
Resurreccion Hidalgo depicting a scene from Greek mythology where
Charon ferries souls across the River Acheron to the Underworld. In this
painting, various elements of art interact to convey the mood and narrative
such as color by using a predominantly dark and somber color palette to
evoke the gloomy atmosphere of the Underworld. Another is the line with
Strong, diagonal lines in the water and the boat’s oars create a dynamic
sense of motion, suggesting the steady passage of Charon’s boat across
the river. Lastly is the texture by employing a variety of brushstrokes and
techniques to create texture in the water, the boat, and the figures. This
adds visual interest and depth to the painting, enhancing its realism.
Interpretation:
It communicates the theme of mortality and the journey into the afterlife as
depicted in Greek mythology. The painting captures the moment when
Charon, the ferryman of Hades, transports souls across the River Acheron
to the Underworld. Our thoughts or feelings in this painting is by
acknowledging the hardships that they encountered across the river
Judgement:
La Barca De Aqueronte” is widely regarded as a significant work of art due
to its skillful execution, evocative portrayal of Greek mythology, and the
depth of its thematic exploration. Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo painting is
praised for its use of color, composition, and symbolism to convey the
journey of souls into the Underworld.