Some people say, "If you want popularity, don't mix art with politics and religion," but that's nonsense. Art has always been used and nurtured for and by those in power, the patrons. Without their support and recognition, a work of art cannot establish its fame on its own. It is only relatively recently, historically speaking, that artists have been able to enjoy the benefits of favoritism by freely expressing their policies and preferences.

Today, because of this very evocative quality, contemporary art is celebrated for its idea of freedom of expression. In fact, I am grateful for this fortunate era of freedom and the Internet to find and support such artists from Argentina. Lazaro Hurtado's paintings are open-minded and cathartic to those who understand them. His works and their titles, they are interlocked like a riddle and an answer. With his surrealistic imagination and skill in artistic realization, the simple matière of acrylic and cardboard is more than enough to relate to us.

"By deciphering and interpreting the inner nature of the work, the spectator brings it into contact with the outside world and contributes to the creative act." - Marcel Duchamp

Irony, usually expressed in words but also in artistic form, is a way of expressing dry humor and a twist on reality. My South American friends who are masters of irony said, "We've had enough practice thanks to our corrupt society that we can get through the day with some laughter." Lazaro Furtado's humanistic and philosophical drawings are dense, punchy, and like a good martini. It is said that "the pen is mightier than the sword," and I must add: Hurtado expresses the chaotic and self-destructive nature of humanity, but embraces it.

"True wisdom emerges in each of us when we realize that we do not understand life, ourselves, and the world around us." - Socrates.

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