Flower and Tree

Jose Barrios
Painting
2019

Discovery Hall, Second Floor

Jose Barrios is an emerging painter from Spain.
 
Flower and Tree represents the opposing forces of fragility and strength that, when intertwined, can lead to growth and new beginnings. 
 
The composition depicts a tree trunk with a carving. Inside the carving rests a delicate, blooming flower. Reminiscent of an hourglass with sand flowing downwards, it appears that the tree is directly feeding the flower. The metaphor of strong roots sheltering a flower is clear and familiar: our strength nurtures and protects our vulnerability and fragility. Barrios’ palette and brush strokes take this message a level deeper: the flower is radiating an intense, glowing light, almost as if it had just been exposed to sunlight after many days in darkness. The portion of the trunk that’s been revealed has the same brushstrokes as its exterior. These artistic choices offer a message of empowerment: the parts of ourselves that we’ve protected in darkness for so long have always been within us, and when we are ready to reveal them, they will shine and add energy to our world. As Flower and Tree reminds us, our strength and fragility must be merged to create internal synergy, growth, and beauty.