The artwork entitled “Hombre sacando la lengua,” created by the artist Rufino Tamayo in 1967, stands as a notable example of figurative expressionism. Tamayo, an artist known for blending Mexican folk themes with a modern style, here presents a composition that exemplifies the emotional intensity and dynamic form characteristic of the expressionist movement.
In the artwork, viewers are met with a bold juxtaposition of colors and textures that combine to form the figure of a man. The central character appears to be actively sticking out his tongue, which is emphasized by the stark contrast of red against the paler hues that dominate the rest of the form. The figure’s visage, abstract in its rendering, captures an irreverent or rebellious spirit, a common thematic element in Tamayo’s oeuvre that frequently explored human nature and its many expressions.
Characteristic of Tamayo’s style, the elements of the painting do not align with traditional representation; they are instead distorted, with a sense of spontaneity and emotional expressiveness. The background and surrounding motifs merge with the figure, creating a sense of depth and complexity, while the application of paint suggests a raw and tactile quality, giving the artwork a powerful, almost primal, presence. Through this artwork, Tamayo continues to explore the depths of human expression, allowing the viewer a glimpse into not just a literal interpretation of a man sticking out his tongue, but also an exploration into the human psyche and the array of emotions it can manifest.
