Early Abstract Work

The biomorphic forms and abstract shapes in Hurtado’s early works evoke a range of associations, from neolithic figurines to prehistoric rock art and automatic drawing techniques. During this period, Hurtado regularly worked in crayon, using a method called “ink resist.” For this technique, an ink wash is applied over areas rendered in crayon; because of the water-repelling properties of the waxy crayon, the ink permeates the paper only between the colored strokes. As one can see in the examples on view here, the contrast between dark ink wash and colored hues creates a dense and vibrant energy.