Exploring the Evolution of Self-Representation
Renowned Chilean artist Enrique Campuzano is set to unveil his latest exhibition, “From Self-Portrait to Selfie,” at Museo Ralli Santiago. This collection explores the transformation of self-representation in art, juxtaposing traditional self-portraits with modern selfies.
Exhibition Overview
The upcoming exhibition, “From Self-Portrait to Selfie,” presents a visual narrative that spans the evolution of self-representation. Featuring approximately twenty works in various formats, Enrique Campuzano explores the journey of self-portraiture from its classical roots to its modern digital expression—all through his signature realistic style.
Tracing the Historical Lineage
Campuzano’s collection is structured around three key phases:
- Classical Influences:
The exhibition opens by recalling early self-representation in ancient art. Here, deities like Zeus symbolize the mythological roots of self-imagery, where idealized forms conveyed power and divinity. Campuzano reinterprets these symbols to reflect on how early self-representation set the stage for later artistic expression. - European Masters:
Moving forward, the display draws inspiration from iconic artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Velázquez. These masters transformed self-portraiture into a medium of personal exploration. Their techniques—ranging from Rembrandt’s use of light and shadow to Rubens’ rich textures—highlight the depth of emotional and psychological insight that a well-crafted self-portrait can reveal. - Modern Interpretations:
The final segment examines how 20th-century artists like Dalí, Magritte, Bacon, and Freud reshaped self-representation. By distorting reality and embracing surreal or raw depictions, these artists questioned traditional norms and paved the way for today’s digital self-images. Campuzano’s work bridges these modern innovations with classic realism, prompting viewers to consider the impact of digital culture on our understanding of identity.
A Dialogue Between Past and Present
By juxtaposing these distinct eras, the exhibition invites visitors to compare the thoughtful, painstaking nature of historical self-portraits with the spontaneous, often fleeting quality of modern selfies. Campuzano’s work challenges us to reflect on whether today’s instant self-representations can hold the same depth as the carefully constructed portraits of the past.
Artist’s Inspiration
Campuzano was inspired by his visits to prominent museums, where he observed the overwhelming presence of mobile technology in art spaces. He encourages audiences—especially younger generations—to reflect on the difference between the carefully crafted self-portrait and the impulsive selfie culture.
Watch this video for a closer look at Campuzano’s artistic approach:
Exhibition Details
- 📍 Location: Museo Ralli Santiago, Alonso de Sotomayor 4110, Vitacura, Santiago, Chile.
- 📅 Dates: April 3 – August 2, 2025.
- 🕒 Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM.
Who Is Enrique Campuzano?
Born in Iquique, Chile (1948), Enrique Campuzano is a self-taught artist of Spanish and Chilean descent. His artistic journey began with a deep interest in:
✔ Music, poetry, and theater.
✔ Stage design, graphic arts, and photography.
✔ Classical art studies including anatomy and composition.
By 1978, under the mentorship of painter Ladislao Vuchetich, he shifted his focus entirely to painting. By the early 1980s, Campuzano had become a full-time artist, gaining recognition for his meticulous realism and thought-provoking themes.
His works are now part of collections across the U.S., Europe, Chile, and Latin America.
Why You Should Visit This Exhibition
This exhibition is a must-see for art lovers, historians, and anyone fascinated by the evolution of self-expression. It raises thought-provoking questions:
- How has self-representation changed over centuries?
- Do selfies hold the same depth as classical self-portraits?
- What does this shift say about modern identity and technology?
For more information, visit the Museo Ralli Santiago website or email [email protected].
Don’t miss this journey from the past to the digital age!
