“Mask II,” created by Nathan Oliveira in 2007, is a sculpture representative of the Neo-Expressionism art movement. The artwork serves as a profound example of the emotive and visceral qualities characteristic of this genre.
The sculpture features a stylized human head, crafted with a textured, almost weathered surface, capturing a raw and rustic aesthetic. The face, with its disproportionate and exaggerated features, exudes a haunting yet evocative presence. The rough, greenish hue of the material suggests an aged patina, further enhancing the rugged and enigmatic quality of the piece. The head rests on a square base, grounding the ethereal nature of the form in a tangible reality. The fusion of expressive form and tactile texture in “Mask II” underscores Oliveira’s ability to transcend mere representation and evoke deeper psychological and emotional states.