Natasha Lelenco, Currency #246, 2024, Acrylic Painting

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Currency #246 is part of Natasha Lelenco’s evocative series of circular portraits, which explores the concept of value and inequality … Read more Currency #246 is part of Natasha Lelenco’s evocative series of circular portraits, which explores the concept of value and inequality through the metaphor of currency. In this piece, a side-profile portrait, painted in rich green tones and framed by a vibrant yellow background, is encircled by the text “Lo siento, yo tampoco soy de aquí”. The artwork plays with the aesthetics of coins, evoking ideas of exchange, worth, and the disparities in how human lives are valued based on origin, race, or family background. The series reflects Lelenco’s sharp critique of societal inequalities, using varying "prices" for each piece to highlight the arbitrary nature of value. The circular format reinforces the metaphor of coins, while her bold use of color and intricate details invites viewers to reflect on themes of identity, belonging, and social constructs. This mixed media piece is crafted on a wooden panel, blending figurative precision with conceptual depth. The juxtaposition of humor in the text and the serious underlying message makes Currency #246 a compelling addition to contemporary art collections. Technical Details: The piece is painted on a treated pine wood panel with a 2 cm thickness, giving it a sculptural quality. The smooth wooden surface provides a flawless base for the application of acrylics, allowing for precise detailing and vibrant color contrast. The thickness of the panel lends a three-dimensional presence to the work, making it equally impactful when viewed from various angles. The impeccable finish highlights the interplay between the cool tones of the portrait and the warm yellow background, enhancing the overall visual impact. About the Project: This artwork belongs to Natasha Lelenco’s Exchange Currencies series, which reinterprets personal migration narratives through coin-inspired circular paintings. Each piece combines vivid colors, figurative imagery, and multilingual text to explore themes of cultural exchange, identity, and belonging. The round format underscores the universal nature of these experiences, transforming individual stories into shared symbols of value and resilience. Designed for flexibility, these works can be displayed as standalone pieces or as part of larger, multi-panel arrangements. Collectors and curators can also commission custom works to reflect their unique narratives or spatial requirements. The series is recognized for its innovative blend of aesthetic appeal and conceptual depth, making it a valuable contribution to contemporary art. Additional Insights: The sculptural depth and vibrant palette of this piece ensure its presence in any display context, from private collections to public exhibitions. Its round shape and integration of text invite viewers to engage with the artwork on multiple levels, sparking conversations about migration, identity, and cultural belonging. Keywords: profile portrait, yellow background, contemporary art, Spanish text, migration narrative, cultural identity, coin-inspired design, wooden panel, acrylic painting, customizable art, multi-panel installation, Natasha Lelenco. Signed by Maker See less