Cisco Merel's São Paulo Exhibition Explores Identity Through Indigenous-Inspired Clay Sculptures

From August 3 to October 5, 2024, the Zielinsky gallery in São Paulo, Brazil, will host a solo exhibition by Panamanian artist Cisco Merel, titled 'Âncoras atemporais.' The exhibition showcases six sizable clay wall sculptures and two standalone pieces, all crafted in 2024, in addition to two abstract geometric paintings. Among the sculptures are 'Ramaje,' 'Floramiga,' 'Amuleto,' 'Sol y luna,' and two variations of 'La Danza,' characterized by deep ochre tones and cracked textures. Drawing inspiration from the molas of Panama's Guna people, the clay represents the reclamation of land by Central America's indigenous populations. The paintings, 'Espiritus Fluviales' and 'Eterno Presente,' embody a hard-edged abstract style, while the exhibition critiques contemporary curatorial practices by presenting a complex view of identity.