The artwork “By Aquarium” is a symbolic painting created by the artist Remedios Varo in 1961. As part of the Surrealism movement, Varo’s piece embodies the unconventional and dream-like qualities typical of the genre. Surrealism aims to release the creative potential of the unconscious mind by juxtaposing irrational imagery with realistic detail.
In “By Aquarium,” we observe a mystical scene dominated by earthy and eerie tones. The central figure is shrouded in a voluminous orange cloak, beneath which appears a translucent fish-like creature, showcasing Varo’s play with transparency and texture. The fish, seemingly suspended, has a humanoid face with an expression that appears both stern and enigmatic. The figure’s visible hands are pale and delicate, reinforcing the ethereal quality of the character.
By the figure’s side, a young person dressed in black attire sits comfortably upon the draped fabric of the cloak as if it were a solid surface. This figure holds what could be interpreted as a metallic pinwheel or compass, an object that may symbolize guidance, navigation, or childhood innocence. In the background, tall, thin plants or seaweed extend upwards, creating a dense aquatic forest that complements the title of the artwork.
Both characters are set against this pseudo-underwater forest, evoking an atmosphere of contemplation and otherworldliness. The artwork invites a multitude of interpretations, each potentially revealing insights into the subconscious and the symbolic interplay of the elements depicted. Varo’s skillful blend of the real and the surreal crafts a thought-provoking tableau that lingers in the spectator’s mind.
