Bedia, José | Güije espíritu burlón, 2009 — available on Composition Gallery

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Güije espíritu burlón (2009) by José Bedia is an etching and engraving measuring 89 × 115 cm, created in an edition of 50. The work juxtaposes the image of a battleship emitting dramatic plumes of smoke with faint, schematic red line drawings in the foreground—possibly referencing a mythical or spiritual figure. The title refers to the “Güije,” a mischievous water spirit from Afro-Cuban folklore, suggesting a tension between military power and cultural mysticism. Bedia’s layering of expressive mark-making with precise drawing evokes a visual dialogue between colonial histories, myth, and resistance.

José Bedia (Cuba, 1959) is a Cuban contemporary artist whose work bridges African, Caribbean, and indigenous spiritual traditions. Known for his dynamic paintings and installations, Bedia explores themes of migration, ritual, and cultural identity. His art is showcased in prestigious collections worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Smithsonian Institution.

José Bedia

Güije espíritu burlón, 2009

Name: Güije espíritu burlón, 2009
SKU: 16358
Price: 1800.00 EUR
Availability: InStock

Form

Limited Edition Print

Limited Edition PrintA limited edition print is one of a number of prints made at the same time from one printmaking plate. A fixed number are made and signed by the artist, indicating the printing order, using the format 1/10, meaning first of ten prints.

Medium

Etching

EtchingEtching is a technique where a design is created on a metal surface by using a strong acid or mordant to eat away the unprotected parts of the metal, leaving the desired pattern in relief (intaglio). In modern art and manufacturing, different chemicals may be used depending on the material being etched.

Edition

Edition of 50

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I see myself as a kind of anthropologist. I do field work, I collect things and take notes — and then the ideas start to come out.
- José Bedia

José Bedia (b. 1959, Cuba) is a Cuban artist known for his abstract painting style, deeply influenced by spirituality and primitive cultures. Bedia began his studies at the Escuela Nacional de Bellas Artes in Cuba, where he developed a unique artistic approach that often explores the conflict between machines and nature. Since the late 1970s, he has participated in numerous collective exhibitions, and his work is featured in many museums across the United States. While not aligned with any specific movement, Bedia was part of the 80's Generation group of Cuban-American artists, who focused on Afro-Cuban devotional practices. Another notable artist from this group is Ana Mendieta. In addition to his paintings, Bedia also creates sculpture installations that reflect his deep interest in primitive cultures, further showcasing his diverse artistic range.(Artist website)

Artwork by Yves Klein

What is body art?

Body art involves creating art directly on or with the human body. Common forms include body piercings and tattoos, but it also encompasses practices like branding, scarification, scalping, body painting, full-body tattoos, body shaping, and sub-dermal implants. Body art can also refer to a subcategory of performance art where the artist's body is central to the artwork.

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José Bedia

Güije espíritu burlón, 2009

89 x 115 cm

Language & Currency

José Bedia