Juntoal Mar Jose Mateu San Hilario Royo (1945-)

The vertical format immediately establishes a sense of height and enclosure, drawing the viewers eye upward along the figures. Here we see two women positioned within what appears to be a rocky coastal setting. The composition is dominated by a palette of warm tones – ochres, yellows, and creams – interspersed with touches of pink and blue that suggest both sunlight and shadow.
The artist has employed an impasto technique, evident in the thick application of paint which creates texture and visual dynamism. This approach lends a tactile quality to the scene, particularly noticeable in the rendering of the rocks and foliage behind the women. The brushstrokes are loose and expressive, contributing to a feeling of immediacy and spontaneity.
The two figures occupy the foreground, their poses suggesting introspection or quiet contemplation. One woman stands slightly above the other, her gaze directed downwards with an air of melancholy. Her dress is rendered in delicate whites and pinks, contrasting with the earthier tones surrounding them. The second woman sits, her head bowed, seemingly lost in thought. Her attire incorporates a more vibrant mix of colors, hinting at a possible difference in temperament or social standing.
The backdrop reveals a glimpse of the sea through an opening between the rocks, indicated by patches of blue and yellow. A small boat is visible near the waters edge, adding another layer to the narrative possibilities. The foliage surrounding the figures appears lush but somewhat overgrown, suggesting a secluded and perhaps forgotten location.
Subtly, the painting evokes themes of solitude, reflection, and the passage of time. The women’s postures convey a sense of quiet sadness or longing, while the natural setting implies a retreat from the world. The contrast between the delicate figures and the rugged landscape creates a tension that invites interpretation. It is possible to read this as an exploration of feminine identity within a specific cultural context, where nature serves as both refuge and backdrop for personal narratives. The verticality of the canvas reinforces the feeling of being enclosed, perhaps symbolizing emotional or psychological boundaries.