Two colossi gaze at one another: human figures—a man and a woman. Stripped of their skin, they reveal the perfection of human architecture; in this naked state, they simultaneously represent humanity—suffering from the ailments that afflict it—and the ancient science of medicine, in whose study and practice humanity has placed its hope of eradicating pain and disease while seeking to prolong life and well-being. This science—Medicine—is represented, as it has been since ancient times, by the symbol of a serpent winding across one of the panels where a figure stands. Both colossi seem to emerge, like life itself, from the depths of the earth that sustains them and offers up the healing substances—whether mineral or biological—that spring from it. These are emblematic figures that will guide generations of young people as they delve into the knowledge of the medical sciences. Their colossal size and placement allow them to be viewed from multiple levels, offering different interpretations from every angle. It is significant that the colossi represent both the male and female body. Master Miguel Valverde Castillo employs a bold color palette to draw us into the mysteries of life—represented by the DNA strand held by the female figure, the giver of life—while the male colossus represents health, rejuvenation, molecular order, and strength.
The intense colors and defined figures can be admired from the various levels of the foyer. The murals, which face north, had their color palette determined by the specific lighting conditions of the space.
With these murals, the community of Hidalgo del Parral celebrates the presence of the Autonomous University of Chihuahua’s School of Medicine extension, a development that adds to the vitality and drive of the local community.
José Pérez Delgado
Professor of Art History
Faculty of Arts, UACh.
