Xul Solar, Argentinian painter and sculptor (b. 1887)

Xul Solar, the adopted and now iconic name of Oscar Agustín Alejandro Schulz Solari, was a towering figure in Argentina's early 20th-century avant-garde. Born on December 14, 1887, and passing away on April 9, 1963, in Tigre, Buenos Aires, he was a polymath whose diverse talents spanned painting, sculpture, writing, and even the creation of entirely new, imaginary languages. His chosen name, "Xul Solar," itself a mystical anagram of his surname "Schulz Solari" (with "Xul" meaning "light" in Latin and "Solar" evoking the sun), was a deliberate artistic statement that encapsulated his lifelong fascination with esotericism, spirituality, and the cosmos.

A quintessentially Argentine artist, Xul Solar's work often transcended traditional artistic boundaries, embodying a unique blend of mysticism, symbolism, and a fantastical vision that continues to captivate audiences. He spent a significant portion of his early adult life in Europe, primarily in London and Germany, where he absorbed various intellectual and artistic currents, including Expressionism, Cubism, and Symbolism, before returning to Argentina in 1924. This period abroad profoundly shaped his eclectic style and his pursuit of universal truths through art.

The Multifaceted Artist and Innovator

Xul Solar’s creative output was remarkably varied, reflecting his insatiable curiosity and his desire to explore the unseen dimensions of existence. His artistic practice was not merely about aesthetics; it was a profound philosophical and spiritual journey.

Painter of Cosmic Realms

As a painter, Xul Solar developed a distinctive style characterized by vibrant colors, intricate details, and a dreamlike quality. His canvases frequently depict fantastical cities, otherworldly landscapes, and mythical creatures, all infused with a rich tapestry of symbols derived from astrology, the Cabala, Taoism, and other esoteric traditions. He often referred to his paintings as "visions" or "utopian landscapes," where the terrestrial and the celestial merge. His work is sometimes associated with Surrealism, though he cultivated a unique path that prefigured aspects of magical realism in Latin American art, creating intricate cosmogonies and spiritual diagrams.

Sculptor and Musician

While primarily known for his painting, Xul Solar also ventured into sculpture, creating unique, often totemic figures that echoed the mystical themes of his two-dimensional work. Beyond the visual arts, he was an accomplished musician and even invented an updated version of the piano, the "Pan-piano," which allowed for a more comprehensive range of musical notes and harmonies, further illustrating his drive to invent and refine systems of expression.

Writer and Philologist

His literary contributions included poetry, philosophical musings, and essays, often infused with his esoteric knowledge. He was a close friend and intellectual companion to writer Jorge Luis Borges, profoundly influencing Borges's own mystical and philosophical writings. Xul Solar frequently appeared as a character or reference in Borges's short stories and essays, highlighting his pivotal role in Buenos Aires's vibrant cultural scene and the reciprocal nature of their intellectual exchange.

Inventor of Imaginary Languages

Perhaps one of Xul Solar's most imaginative and enduring contributions was his invention of imaginary languages. Driven by a desire for universal communication and spiritual understanding, he meticulously crafted two notable linguistic systems:

• Panlengua: Conceived as a universal language based on monosemic roots, Panlengua aimed to transcend linguistic barriers, allowing for clear, unambiguous communication across cultures and nations. It was an ambitious project reflecting his belief in the unity of human experience.
• Neocriollo: This was a pan-American language, a synthesis of Spanish and Portuguese with elements drawn from various other languages and indigenous tongues. Neocriollo was designed to foster a shared identity and easier communication throughout Latin America, reflecting Xul Solar's vision for a culturally unified continent.

These linguistic endeavors were not mere intellectual exercises; they were integral to his larger philosophical project of constructing new realities and forging pathways to higher consciousness. Xul Solar's life was a testament to the power of imagination and the pursuit of a holistic vision that integrated art, spirituality, and intellectual innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What was Xul Solar's real name?

Xul Solar's birth name was Oscar Agustín Alejandro Schulz Solari.

Why did he change his name to Xul Solar?

He adopted "Xul Solar" as an artistic and personal statement. It's an anagram of his surname "Schulz Solari," with "Xul" (meaning "light" in Latin) and "Solar" evoking cosmic and spiritual themes he explored throughout his work.

What kind of art did Xul Solar create?

Xul Solar was primarily a painter whose works are characterized by mystical, symbolic, and dreamlike qualities. His art often featured fantastical landscapes, cosmic visions, and esoteric symbols drawn from astrology, the Cabala, and other spiritual traditions. He also worked as a sculptor and musician.

What are Panlengua and Neocriollo?

These are two imaginary languages invented by Xul Solar. Panlengua was conceived as a universal language for global communication, while Neocriollo was a pan-American language blending Spanish, Portuguese, and other influences to foster Latin American unity.

What was Xul Solar's connection to Jorge Luis Borges?

Xul Solar was a close friend and significant intellectual influence on the renowned Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges. Their frequent discussions and shared interests in mysticism and philosophy deeply impacted Borges's writing, and Xul Solar often appeared as a character or reference in his literary works.