Juan Bejar (1946-present, Spanish)

Juan Bejar (1946-present, Spanish) is a popular surrealist painter with a unique style. His main subjects are children with round pale faces that have seemingly dead, emotionless eyes. The children are placed in highly detailed surroundings and are often accompanied by a cat or two. Almost always looking straight forward, they resemble dolls. They could also be based upon Spanish court jesters that were very popular. The detail

of their surroundings and their clothing contrasts with their plain emotionless faces.

Bejar has defined these works as “poisoned sweets” of realism blended with naivety. His works are based on symbolism and metaphor. Many include frogs which symbolize wealth and long life. Likewise, the cat, as is typical, symbolizes the moon, fertility and evil. Dogs are juxtaposed as loyal and obedient. Definitely thought provoking, these works are in many ways troubling.

Juan Béjar 2016, Memoria de los Sentimientos

Memoria de los Sentimientos, 2016

Girl, Plant, Dog and Cat

Girl, Dog and Cat

Girl with Two Cats

Girl with Grey Cat

Girl and Cat

Boy, Bird, Frog and Cat

Boy with Cat in a Hat

Boy Lifting Weights with Cat

Boy in Black Suite with Cat

Boy and Lion

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