Expressive Male Profile on Blue Panel - 'Currency #254'

Part of Natasha Lelenco’s Currencies series, Currency #254 presents a hyperrealistic depiction of a male figure against a bold turquoise circular background, carefully crafted in acrylic on a treated wooden panel. The inscription in Spanish, “He llegado aquí de pequeño. Había fallecido mi padre. Teníamos problemas en casa.”, translates to “I came here as a child. My father had passed away. We had problems at home.”, narrating a deeply personal yet universal story of migration and resilience. By replacing historical figures traditionally found on coins with anonymous faces and intimate reflections, Lelenco challenges societal perceptions of identity, displacement, and value. The striking contrast between the earthy skin tones and the vivid blue backdrop amplifies the emotional weight of the piece, creating a compelling juxtaposition between presence and absence. Designed to be displayed independently or as part of a modular installation, this unique work invites viewers to contemplate the fragility of belonging and the complexities of home in an ever-changing world.