“For me it is / To be human”: The Art of Carlos Barrios

Having relocated to Australia from war-ravaged El Salvador in 1990, Carlos Barrios, at the young age of 24, had already lived a life more eventful than what many of us might experience in a lifetime. Nurtured with a passion for learning by his parents and teachers, Barrios flourished in his new country, excelling at East Sydney Technical College (later COFA and NAS) and earning recognition for his figurative artwork. In recent times, Barrios has become a prominent figure in the revival of figurative expressionism in Australia with his experiential paintings, mixed media creations, charcoal drawings, ceramics, and sculptures.

Before delving into this artistic phenomenon, let's reflect on the journey that led us here.

From the 1940’s onwards, Australian artists grappled with their role in a world overshadowed by the Cold War. They largely embraced the diverse postmodern art movements of Europe, particularly Abstract Expressionism (or action painting), which is commonly associated today with themes of apocalyptic events or an overarching feeling of crisis. The resulting visual elements are often considered less important, taking a back seat to the artist's personal identity, which contributes significantly to the artwork's impact.

Even though Abstract Expressionism eventually returned to figuration, it only acknowledged a sombre and often obscured representation of the human form - one that was mutilated and deprived. This ensured the perpetuation of its aesthetic and sense of crisis. In other words, the depiction of the "figure" maintained a broad and contemporary scope.

Australia's historical narratives found a fitting space in this relatively secure environment for creating art, touching on themes such as the displacement of Indigenous people, the unfair treatment of minorities, and the unfortunate loss of its soldiers. Nevertheless, with the passage of time, Abstract Expressionism, while just one of many artistic paths, is commonly thought to have lost its momentum.

Albert Tucker, 'Battlefield’ (1942) Photo: Australian War Memorial, Canberra

Sidney Nolan, 'Ned Kelly' (1946) Photo: National Gallery of Australia, Canberra

Guy Warren, 'The Arrival' (1990-1998) Photo: The Sydney Morning Herald

Euan Macleod, 'Figure above dark island' (2013) Photo: Niagara Galleries

Only after an art trend seems to have peaked can the unexplored elements of Abstract Expressionism be separated from the traditional beliefs that considered them to be rebellious acts.

The presence of the figure in Abstract Expressionism may not have been universal, but it should not be considered a surprising concept. Abstract Expressionism was not always entirely abstract; it sometimes used the figure to convey metaphor, allegory, and imagination – drawing inspiration from internal landscapes such as dreams, which are a significant source of influence in Barrios' work.

Barrios has been a prominent figure in the Australian art scene for more than thirty years. His art consistently attracts a large audience of admirers who are captivated by the lively figures depicted on expansive canvases. His works are distinguished by the vibrant colours and confident brushwork influenced by his artistic roots in El Salvador.

Carlos Barrios, 'The Chariot' (2024), Mixed media on linen, 202cm x 200cm Photo: Lennox St. Gallery

Carlos Barrios, 'Menagerie' (2024), Mixed media on linen, 120cm x 208cm Photo: Lennox St. Gallery

Barrios' most recent exhibition is truly outstanding, showcasing remarkable vibrancy and impressive scale. Opening on August 21, 2024, at Lennox St. Gallery, 'The Chariot: A Journey' will feature 18 large oil and mixed media paintings, 8 smaller oil paintings, 7 ceramic vases, and 5 sculptures crafted from basalt and stone.

In Barrios’ words, the exhibition gives poetic voice to his imagination, desires and experiences at this time in his extraordinary life.

The chariot

A journey

For me it is

To be human

To be alive

To wonder

To taste

To feel

To smell & touch

This is about our body the chariot, guided by the rider our mind-spirit, the horses our senses, emotions - desires.

‍Going along and experiencing all of the realities around us. It is about adventure and places.

I would like to share this journey and some of its places and creatures.

It is a path full of possibilities expressed through my work.

One of the most sizeable artworks on display in this exhibition is 'The Chariot' by Barrios, a mixed media piece on linen that showcases the artist's daring use of shapes and colors. The painting defies traditional norms by portraying bound human figures as horses, prompting viewers to expand their imagination as they ponder the metaphorical red chariot's destination moving swiftly against a vibrant yellow backdrop. Exceptional.

Carlos Barrios, 'Let's Fiesta' (2020-2024), Mixed media on linen, 200cm x 202cm Photo: Lennox St. Gallery

Carlos Barrios, 'Elegy in a country graveyard' (2011), Oil on linen, 130cm x 120cm Photo: Lennox St. Gallery

Similarly, 'Let's Fiesta' is a monumental painting that evokes admiration for its size and creative concept, honouring the artist's beloved life marked by memories with family, friends, and departed souls depicted as macabre, shadowy figures. These elements resonate deeply with South American traditions, remaining a constant presence in the artist's reflections and feelings.

One of the artist's standout works showcasing his wide range of skills is 'Blossom', a ceramic vase measuring 56 cm in height. The use of blue and emerald glazes enhances the natural essence of the voluptuous female figure, elegantly positioned within the curvature of the vase. the earthly nature of the figure of a voluptuous woman , expertly framed within the curve of the vase.

Carlos Barrios, 'Blossom' (2024), Oxide-glazed ceramic vase, 56 x 34 x 34cm Photo: Lennox St. Gallery

Carlos Barrios, ‘Family and Dog’ (2024) Photo: Author

The sculpture "Horse" is crafted from basalt and mounted on a wooden base, standing at 44 cm in height. It serves as a tribute to Barrios' classical education and knowledge of ancient archaeology. By incorporating an exaggerated eye, flattened profile, and primitive form in the horse head, this artwork skilfully merges traditional influences with a modernist touch.

Barrios' artwork positions this artist as a leader in the resurgence of figurative expressionism, embodying a cultural legacy that captivates his viewers, taking them along on his creative exploration of the joy he finds in living. Personally, I find inspiration in Barrios' artwork, always gaining a deeper understanding, not least about myself.

Carlos Barrios, 'Horse' (2024), Basalt, 44 x 30 x 15cm Photo: Lennox St. Gallery

Carlos Barrios, ‘As above ...’ (2024), Mixed media on polyester, 150cm x 260 cm Photo: Lennox St. Gallery

Installation shots, Lennox St. Gallery Photos: Author

Carlos Barrios: 'The Chariot: A Journey' runs from 21 August to 8 September 2024 at Lennox St. Gallery, 322-324 Lennox Street, Richmond (Melbourne), Wednesday - Friday 11.00 am to 6.00 pm, Saturday - Sunday 11.00 am to 4.00 pm

Full Catalogue

Main Photo: Carlos Barrios (2015) (Sydney Morning Herald)

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Andrew McIlroy is an Australian artist and writer