graphite and charcoal on wood panel, 96 x 96 inches
Collection, San Diego Museum of Art
: : Artist Statement : :
Bartolomé was created in 2004 in response to the torture of Iraqi prisoners by
American soldiers at Abu Ghraib prison. The title refers to Saint Bartholomew,
one of the twelve apostles, who preached his religion and beliefs throughout the
Middle East. Because of his proselytizing, Saint Bartholomew suffered a terrible
martyrdom by being flayed alive and crucified. The flaying became the reference
for him to become the patron saint of fishermen. The imagery in this drawing
reference both the martyrdom of Saint Bartholomew, someone who was tortured
for his beliefs, and the photographs that documented the suffering inflicted upon
Iraqi (Muslim) prisoners. In this work, Hugo is commenting on the horrors of
intolerance as well as humanity's legacy for such brutality and senseless violence
based on differences in religious or other beliefs.
: : Exhibition History : :
: : Press : :