“The Call,” a symbolic painting created by Remedios Varo in 1961, is a manifestation of the Surrealist movement and is executed in oil on masonite. This artwork, which is part of the collection at the National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA) in Washington, DC, exemplifies the genre through its enigmatic and dreamlike quality.
The artwork depicts an ethereal scene where a central figure clad in a vibrant orange robe appears to move forward, emanating a radiant glow. Above this figure, a surreal, comet-like form with an elongated tail casts a celestial light, adding a mystical quality to the tableau. The figure holds a key in one hand, suggesting an imminent unlocking or revelation. In the background, figures are embedded within the walls as if they are part of the architecture itself, wearing hats and observing the scene unfolding before them. Their presence contributes to the overall sense of mystique and otherworldliness.
The setting is composed of primarily muted, earthy tones, with the warm glow of the robe providing a stark contrast that draws the viewer’s eye toward the central figure. The precise geometric patterns on the floor add to the intricate detail and depth of the scene, alluding to the complexities and hidden dimensions within the artwork. This solemn procession, combined with the curious floating form and the statuesque, attentive figures, invokes a narrative that is rich with symbolism and open to the viewer’s own interpretation. Overall, the artwork stands as a testament to Remedios Varo’s imaginative power and her contribution to Surrealism.
