Bat and Dog, 2023

Bat and Dog is part of the collection "The Day You'd Love Me", a series of paintings that explore the different ways in which Venezuelans have found hope in the midst of the country's socioeconomic crisis. This particular paintings reflects on t...

Bat and Dog is part of the collection "The Day You'd Love Me", a series of paintings that explore the different ways in which Venezuelans have found hope in the midst of the country's socioeconomic crisis. This particular paintings reflects on the dreams of revolution that inspired many to rise against their oppressors. The central figure, a young woman, holds two items associated with political uprising: a modern gas mask and a sword resembling the ones used by the heroes of independence. The dignified pose and content look on her face creates symbolizes her optimism and bravery. Accompanying the character are two sets of animals: a few bats, one hanging from her sword and the others resting on a background branch, and a stray dog standing behind her. These creatures represent the human condition of the central character. The bats are a symbol of the ominous future that the protesters faced after failing to realize their political goals. The stray dog, on the other hand, represents the sense of struggle and loyalty that is embodied by the main character. Much like this animal, the civilians who opposed their government did so because they were also abandoned by the system, and their willingness to fight is a demonstration of their fidelity towards the freedom of every Venezuelan.