Não há ventríloquo sem o boneco - Limited Edition by Ana Malta
LIMITED EDITION
Não há ventríloquo sem o boneco: LIMITED EDITION PRINT
Publisher: THIS IS NOT A WHITE CUBE Gallery
Dimensions: 70 x 47 cm
Dimensions: 70 x 47 cm
€ 300.00
In this vibrant and chaotic composition, the phrase “Respect was fear and truth a secret” becomes the key to reading the work. The artist constructs a surreal world of puppets manipulated by a man, surrounded by figures wearing ruffled collars. Historically, such collars were symbols of nobility and respect, associated with authority and social distinction; yet in contemporary times they often evoke the clown and the performer, turning what once inspired reverence into something light-hearted, almost laughable.
This transmutation reflects the way time and critical awareness reshape our understanding of power and respect. The octopus, a creature renowned for its ability to camouflage itself, symbolises the human tendency to disguise vulnerability beneath an appearance of strength or intimidation — a poor substitute for true authority. Meanwhile, the birthday cake appears as a metaphor for the passing of time and the maturation that comes with self-awareness: with the years, understanding deepens and blind obedience fades.
Amid these layered metaphors, the work reminds us that fear should not masquerade as respect, nor should it govern us as a ventriloquist controls a puppet.
