Oscar Murillo
b. 1986, Colombia
(Untitled) news, 2020-2021
Oil, oil stick, graphite and spray paint on canvas and linen
191 x 170.5 cm
(Untitled) news is part of a series of paintings created by Oscar Murillo during the COVID lockdown, alluding to the growing political unrest within his home country of Colombia and throughout the world.
The paintings are defined by their imposing size and profound intensity, featuring densely packed expanses of black that boldly censor significant portions of fiery red, alongside hues of blue, pink and green. Within the artwork, subtle hints of obliterated words suggest both suppression by and resistance against various sources of power.
For Murillo, who views paintings as a medium for dialogue and discourse, these works become political expressions, shining a spotlight on the intentional obfuscation and manipulation of language and information. They underscore the potential for new meanings and narratives to emerge from discussions, emphasising the role of art in confronting and reshaping socio-political conversations.
Photo: Suki Dhanda/The Observer
Oscar Murillo (b. 1986)
Oscar Murillo is a Colombian artist whose artistic practice explores the effects and aspects of globalisation, as well as how the resulting cultural displacement and dissemination results in a universal homogenisation of culture as well. Murillo’s works encompass paintings, works on paper, sculptures, installations, actions, live events, collaborative projects, and videos - mediums used to illustrate nuanced understandings on the ever-evolving state of globalisation.
Murillo attained his BFA from the University of Westminister, London, as well as his MFA from the Royal College of Art, London. He was awarded the Turner Prize from Tate Britain, London (2019) and his works have been exhibited internationally in institutions including David Zwirner, New York (2022), The Hague, Netherlands (2021) and the Aspen Art Museum, Colorado (2019).
