The hippopotamus is a large wild animal, primarily herbivorous, that inhabits sub-Saharan Africa. It is a semi-aquatic mammal that lives in rivers and lakes; during the day, it rests in the water or in the mud alongside other members of its group. At dusk, it becomes more active and ventures out to feed on terrestrial grasses.
Currently, hippos are threatened due to habitat loss and, in addition, poaching for their meat and the ivory from their canine teeth. It is in this context that the artist pauses to portray them, inviting us to reflect on these behaviors.
In the scene of the artwork, the intrepid HIPOLITO appears, happily grazing at dusk. The name HIPOLITO, which Gonzalo has bestowed upon him, is of Greek origin and means “the one who unties horses,” which equates to “warrior” and evokes the purest joys in the classroom.
Gonzalo states: “It is very important to know how to accompany and enhance the capacity for joy that we all have within us. Imagination and creativity are virtues that must be supported. The ability to feel joy is a crucial attitude for overcoming difficult situations in life.”
This beautiful character, created with such love, is an immediate reflection of all of this.