THE MAJESTIC 'VIRGIN OF THE CARTHUSIANS' BY FRANCISCO DE ZURBARÁN

I had to sit down to take in the full size of this huge painting of the Virgin of the Carthusians or the Virgin of the Caves or the Virgin of Mercy, 1655, by Francisco de Zurbarán, as it measures approximately 217 x 161 centimeters (or about 85.4 x 63.4 inches) in size.

ZURBARÁN'S FEMALE SAINTS: AWE-INSPIRING MASTERPIECES

I finally got to meet these beautiful ladies of Francisco de Zurbarán up close. It was amazing to get the opportunity to really appreciate the intricacies of these masterpieces. The meticulous rendering of fabrics decorated with intricate patterns and textures adds to the overall richness of the compositions and demonstrates Zurbarán's exceptional ability to capture minute details and textures.

WATCH * 3D ANIMATION OF GALATEA OF THE SPHERES * A DALI PORTRAIT

"Galatea of the Spheres"," painted by the surrealist artist Salvador Dalí in 1952, is a remarkable testimony to Dalí's unmistakable artistic style and his enthusiasm for the realms of science and mysticism. This masterpiece encompasses various facets that illuminate the complexity of Dalí's vision:

WATCH * UN CHIEN ANDALOU * SALVADOR DALI'S FIRST FILM

In 1929, Salvador Dalí (1904 - 1989) collaborated in Paris with the Spanish film director and fellow student Luis Buñuel (1900 - 1983) on a film project that was so peculiar that it achieved legendary status. It was the first deliberate attempt to shock the audience.

WATCH DESTINO * SENSATIONAL SURREALIST MAGIC

Destino was an animated short film that resulted from a collaboration between Walt Disney and the Spanish surrealist painter Salvador Dalí. The music, composed by Mexican songwriter Armando Domínguez and performed by Mexican singer Dora Luz, accompanied the captivating images.

SEVILLE'S ARTISTIC TREASURES: PEDRO DE MENA'S MASTERPIECES

Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to visit the Museum of Fine Arts in Seville, where I saw three exquisite wooden masterpieces by my favourite 17th century artist and sculptor, Pedro de Mena y Medrano. This Spanish Baroque sculptor, who was born in Granada in August 1628 and died in Málaga on 13 October 1688, had a profound impact on the world of art.

DIVINE ESSENCE: MURILLO'S 'VIRGIN OF THE NAPKIN

Bartolomé Esteban Murillo's "The Virgin of the Napkin" is a captivating masterpiece that captures the divine essence of the Virgin Mary and the Child Jesus. The painting was made in 1666 for the Capuchin Church in Seville. It measures 67 by 72 centimetres and remains one of the most popular depictions of the Virgin Mary. I took my time, sat down on a bench and admired this iconic work of art in the Fine Arts Museum in Seville.

THE MANNERIST MAJESTY OF THE IMPERIAL STAIRCASE OF LA MERCED

During my recent trip to Seville, I came across the old convent of La Merced, in the heart of the city, which now houses the Seville Fine Arts Museum. This historical gem occupies a significant block in the heart of Seville and I could not help but be enchanted by it.

THE YOUTHFUL ST. JOSEPH AND THE ARTISTIC LEGACY OF BARTOLOMÉ ESTEBAN MURILLO

I was very excited to see this beautifully restored (1665-1666) painting of St Joseph with his son. I had read a lot about it and that it was destined for the main altarpiece of the Capuchin monastery church in Seville.

FROM CANINE COMPANION TO CANVAS HISTORY

 

I first came across this painting while researching for my book "Spanish Dogs: The Story of Dogs in Spanish History, Culture & the Arts". It immediately caught my attention because unlike many other dogs depicted in Spanish art, this one was clearly a beloved pet. It was great to find it in the Museum of Fine Arts in Seville.

EMBRACING FREEDOM: 'MALVALOCA' BY JOSÉ GARCÍA RAMOS

José García Ramos, a Romantic painter from the era I admire so much, was a true jewel of Seville who was born in 1852 and tragically died in 1912. I had the great pleasure of seeing his masterpiece "Malvaloca" in the Museum of Fine Arts in Seville. Just looking at this precious work of art left me in awe. This 1912 painting was José García Ramos' last masterpiece and a poignant tribute to a woman known as Rosita, but affectionately called Malvaloca, who was the main character in a play by the Álvarez Quintero brothers.

THE UNVEILING OF 'THE DEATH OF THE MASTER': A PERSONAL ARTISTIC ODYSSEY

The breathtaking work of art entitled "The Death of the Master" by the artist José Villegas Cordero (Seville, 1844 - Madrid, 1921) absolutely captivated me. This oil painting on canvas dominates an exhibition hall in the Museum of Fine Arts in Seville and measures 330 x 505 cm. It was created around 1884. This monumental masterpiece is the culmination of a series of paintings dedicated to a typically Spanish theme – bullfighting. What makes it truly unique within its romantic genre is its grand conception as a historical painting.

ENCHANTING TALES OF THE GIRALDA

Standing at the foot of the Giralda, I couldn't help but be impressed by the tower's history. I read a fascinating story about its architect, Ahmad ibn Baso, who made a remarkable promise. He challenged anyone to find a way to the top without using the stairs, offering a bag of gold as a reward. Many tried, but the Giralda's construction with its winding ramps proved unbeatable. This story brought the incredible engineering of the tower to life and I admired the ingenuity of the architect.

GET TO KNOW SOROLLA

Join this captivating talk and immerse yourself in the world of Joaquín Sorolla, Valencia’s most celebrated artist of the early 20th century. 

Discover the story of his life, his artistic influences, and the triumphs and struggles that shaped his career. 

Marvel at his incredible techniques as he transitions between styles, all brought to life in a dynamic slideshow of his most iconic works. 

By the end, you’ll gain a deep understanding of what makes Sorolla’s art timeless—and be able to truly appreciate his masterpieces like never before.

This Talk will Prepare you for the *"In the Sea of Sorolla"* exhibition coming to the Bancaja Foundation, Valencia from October 4, 2024 – March 9, 2025 .

REVIEWS 

"I really enjoy the in-depth view about the life and times of the artist Sorolla. All aspects of this presentation from his life and times to the information about Spanish history around each of the times of a particular period of his artwork was fascinating. But more importantly, is how much knowledge Karla passes on to her 'students'. The presentations are really fun and the time goes too fast!!! I always recommend her lectures, her knowledge, and her enthusiasm." 

* Janis Turner 

"I learned about a painter that I had no knowledge of, from his formative years right through to his death, through the styles and painters that influenced him as his work developed. The paintings were the star of the show. Very inspiring work, especially his use and rendering of light. Beautiful. I enjoyed Karla's informality and organisation and I would recommend her to a friend." 

* Debra Cazalet, Pego 

"I had seen some of the work of Sorolla before and was so delighted to have attended Karla's very interesting lecture on this great Spanish painter. His connection with Javea was of particular interest and you gave us a true illustration of his unusual technique and skill." 

* Lorna Ainsworth, Javea 

"Karla has a great knowledge of both techniques and cultural history. Sorolla is of great interest to me because I am a Javea resident and so I have a local Javea connection." *

 Lorna O’Connor, Javea 

"It was another fabulous lecture Karla...we learned so much about Sorolla and his work through your inimitable and very accessible style of lecture. I can’t wait to see more of his paintings and also look forward to hearing more from you in the future on other artists...thank you." 

 Gladys Cummings 

"Thank you for your very interesting talk at the recent Anglo Spanish Assoc. meeting on Sorolla. The presentation was very informative and it was a great pleasure to have had the opportunity to see such a wide range of his work about which I knew nothing. I wish I'd found a seat nearer the front! 

* John G. Deacon, Jávea 

"Wow and again wow! What a wonderfully interesting talk on Sorolla that Karla gave to the Anglo Spanish Association yesterday evening. Many of us struggle to understand the subtleties of the development of an artist. What she gave us was a lucid, and well-illustrated, talk on the progress of his abilities and career. For example, I especially remember him being the first to use a white background. I look forward to hearing more of Karla's talks, lectures and tuition." * Keith Hyde, Javea 

"Karla'a expertise on Sorolla's life and work is both extensive and fascinating." 

* David Decker, Javea

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ROMANTIC PAINTING BEAUTIFULLY CAPTURES THE ESSENCE OF CÓRDOBA'S HISTORIC CENTRE

During my visit to the Fine Arts museum of Córdoba, I was captivated by an 1884 painting titled "Sunday in Córdoba on the banks of the Guadalquivir." This delightful artwork, a creation of the talented artist Rafael Romero Barros, instantly drew me in. Romero Barros, born in Moguer, Huelva in 1832 and later residing in Córdoba until 1895, was known for his romantic-style easel oil paintings. This particular piece measures a modest 38 x 55.5 cm, typical of the kind of work produced by artists of that era.

EXPLORING CÓRDOBA'S ENCHANTING JUDERÍA

My journey to Córdoba was enhanced by the enchanting experience of exploring the city's renowned historic Jewish Quarter, known as the Judería. As I ventured into the heart of Córdoba, I found myself transported to a time when this neighbourhood was totally enclosed by formidable medieval walls, creating a distinct and culturally significant area within the city.

CORDOBA'S MIHRAB: THE SACRED SPACE UNVEILED

As I stood in the enchanting Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, my eyes were drawn to the mesmerizing Mihrab. It was no ordinary niche; instead, it unfolded as a sacred space, a small octagonal chamber enveloped by a delicate scallop shell dome. The Mihrab seemed to project itself into the depths of history, taking me on a journey through time.

ORANGES OF ANDALUSIA: A PAINTER'S MASTERPIECE

I extend a warm invitation to all those who hold a deep admiration for the beauty of Spanish art to embark on a captivating journey to the Fine Arts Museum of Córdoba. There, you will have the opportunity to introduce yourself to the artist Rafael Romero Barros and this extraordinary work.

CORDOBA'S HYPOSTYLE HALL: A LIVING LEGACY

Stepping into the Hypostyle Hall of the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba was like embarking on a mesmerizing journey through time, culture, and art. This extraordinary space isn't merely a physical structure; it's a living testament to the rich tapestry of Al-Andalus's cultural and historical heritage.

WHISPERS OF HISTORY: THE MOSQUE-CATHEDRAL'S ARCHITECTURAL TALE

The Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, in the heart of Córdoba, is an awe-inspiring testament to the fusion of two rich architectural traditions, Islamic and Christian. What strikes me the most about this historical gem is its remarkable and intricate architectural journey.

THE REMARKABLE TALE OF COLUMBUS AND BEATRIZ: A LOVE FOUND IN CÓRDOBA

The painting "Columbus Leaving the Mosque Where Beatriz Appears" by Rafael Romero de Torres, created in 1892, is displayed at the Museum of Fine Arts of Córdoba. 

SURPRISES IN THE HEART OF CORDOBA: THE TALE OF PLAZA DEL POTRO

Córdoba, a maze of criss-crossing micro streets, beckoned me on a thrilling escapade as I descended from the bustling Plaza de Capuchinos towards the Museum of Fine Arts. Just when I thought I had unravelled the city's secrets, a delightful surprise awaited me in the form of the Plaza del Potro, home to the famous Posada del Potro immortalized by Cervantes in Don Quixote, standing guard at the entrance to the illustrious museum.

BEAUTIFUL SEVILLE MODEL CAPTURES THE EYE OF TWO LEGENDARY ARTISTS

During my enchanting art-filled journey through Andalusia in October 2023, my steps led me to the Museum of Fine Arts in Seville. Amidst the myriad of captivating artworks, one masterpiece in particular bewitched my senses. It went by the name "Sevillana en su patio" (Seville's Belle in her Courtyard), and it portrayed a serene maiden clad in pure white, gracefully reclining on a divan within a Sevillian courtyard. This picturesque scene evoked the spirit of the Belle Époque, forsaking the rigidity of tradition for an air of casual and carefree elegance that defined that era.

GOYA * tba

REGISTER NOW!! Dive into the dark and unsettling world of Francisco Goya, where art doesn't just replicate reality—it provokes, terrifies, and mocks the superstitions of society. 

In a special Halloween talk by art historian Karla Ingleton Darocas, explore Goya’s most haunting works, images that challenge reason and leave you shaken. 

Prepare to be intoxicated by some of the most terrifying and thought-provoking pieces in Western art history. 

Don't miss it!  

REVIEWS

"I knew that Romanticism was not as romantic as we know it today. I knew it more as 'melancholic'. But Goya's Sublime went a step further. His strikingly emotional paintings of his time are depictions of the horrors in life - fires, ship wreaks, kidnappings, bandits, asylums, prisons, death, etc.

I can understand that his imagination took over when he painted what he read in the newspapers. I admit that these paintings are not exactly easy to look at, but the lecture helped me to understand the man and the painter better 

Karla allows us to see more than just a painting. I highly recommend Karla Darocas's classes."

 * jo jouas, denia

**"

"I learned how much I really didn't know! Goya, the last of the old Masters and introducer of the moderns. A private man with emotional and health battles culminating in his deafness which introduced an era of his art which showed his despair and bleakness of the world surrounding him whilst at the same time giving a glimmer of the hope waiting patiently in the shadows. Karla brings these artists to life with emotional tales that make you both weep and laugh as you live your life with them. I love the originality and fervour in the teaching style of Karla Darocas. I would recommend Karla to others, and I do!"

 * Sue Martin, Pedreguer

BOOK LAUNCH

THANK YOU to everyone who came out to support my little book launch this morning. It was a joy and a privilege to present this milestone being my 8th publication with all of you. ❤️❤️

SEASON 2023 - DON'T MISS ANYTHING!! JOIN NOW...

 

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10 Reasons Why Studying Art History in Spain Offers a Rich and Captivating Experience by Karla Darocas, Arts Historian

​

I have been researching, writing and teaching about Spanish art for over 30 years.  I have found that studying art history in Spain offers a unique opportunity to explore a vibrant artistic landscape that spans centuries, cultures and movements. It is an enriching journey that broadens artistic horizons, and deepens understanding and appreciation of the fascinating world of art.

Here are 10 reasons why I love Spain and its artistic heritage!

Sculptures by the Andalusian Baroque Master Pedro de Mena in Gandía

One of my favourite treasure chests is the Santa Clara Museum in Gandia. Its roots go back to 1431, when Violante de Aragón, daughter of Alfonso de Aragón - senor, Duke of Gandia, founded the convent of Santa Clara in this town.

Since its foundation, many famous women have sought the spiritual refuge of the convent, either because of a sincere vocation or because they were forced to do so by their families who were unable to provide a suitable marriage.

* Report by art historian and educator , Karla Darocas, Hons. B.A. (KarlaDarocas.com)

MAJA WITH A SMALL DOG, 1865, Eugenio Lucas Velázquez

One of the most impressive paintings that will catch your eye when you visit the Carmen Thyssen Museum in Málaga is this completely relaxed "Maja with a Small Dog". It was painted in 1865 by the madrileño, Eugenio Lucas Velázquez, one of the most popular artists of the Spanish Romantic period, considered the best successor to Goya.

Undoubtedly, Eugenio Lucas is paying homage to Goya's masterful work, the Maja, of which there are two versions, one clothed and one nude. Eugenio preferred the clothed Maja to the nude Maja, which allowed him to tell a much fuller story.

* Report by art historian and educator , Karla Darocas, Hons. B.A. (KarlaDarocas.com)

WHAT IS ANDALUSIAN ROMANTICISM?

Andalusian Romanticism refers to a cultural movement that emerged in the southern Spanish region of Andalusia in the 19th century. It was characterised by a renewed interest in local traditions and a romanticised view of Andalusian culture, including its music, art, literature and architecture.

Seville, a city in the Andalusia region of southern Spain, played an important role in the development of Romanticism in Spain during the 19th century. Among the most important painters of this movement from Seville are:

Manuel Barrón y Carrillo - Born in Seville in 1814, Barrón y Carrillo was a painter who specialised in landscapes and genre scenes. His work was characterised by a very detailed style and focused on the colours and textures of the Andalusian landscape.

Joaquín Domínguez Bécquer - Born in Seville in 1822, Bécquer was a painter and illustrator who was also the brother of the famous Romantic poet Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer. His work was characterised by a very detailed style and focused on the emotions and expressions of his subjects.

José Jiménez Aranda - Born in Seville in 1837, Aranda was a prolific painter who specialised in historical and genre scenes. His work was characterised by a concentration on everyday life and a romanticising view of Andalusian culture and traditions.

Overall, these painters played an important role in the development of Romanticism in 19th century Spain, and their works are still celebrated and admired today.

Andalusian Romanticism also had an important influence on Spanish music, particularly the flamenco tradition. During this period, flamenco music began to evolve from a local Andalusian style into a national symbol of Spanish identity and became increasingly popular with artists and intellectuals throughout the country, but that's another story!

Overall, Andalusian Romanticism represented a celebration of Andalusian culture and traditions, as well as a reaction to the industrialisation and modernisation that swept Spain in the 19th century. It played an important role in the development of Spanish art, literature and music, and continues to inspire and influence artists today.

APPRECIATE ART & CULTURE * LOVE SPAIN
Resource Books * CLICK  HERE *

PORT OF MÁLAGA by Manuel Barrón y Carrillo

The next time you visit to Málaga, I recommend a go to the Carmen Thyssen Museum. Here you will find a wonderful collection of paintings belonging to the genre of Andalusian Romanticism.

These paintings are among my favourites for their scenic qualities, composition, painterly style and historical implications.

LEARN MORE

SPEAKER AT INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

 

VIDEO - End of the Day, Joaquin Sorolla, 1900

The End of the Day is a unique painting by Joaquin Sorolla that is never talked about. It is an easel-sized oil painting on linen, 88 by 128 centimetres, approximately 34 by 50 inches.

It was painted during his visit to a charming enclave called Javea (or Xabia in Valencian) in the province of Alicante. It was also Joaquín Sorolla's third stay in Javea , between the fifth of August and the eighteenth of October in the year 1900.

CLICK BUTTON TO ENJOY VIDEO  

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APPRECIATE ART & CULTURE * LOVE SPAIN
Resource Books written by
Karla Ingleton Darocas 
and published by
SpainLifestyle.com 

* CLICK  HERE *

*******

PASSION AND PRIDE AT THE PRADO: Spain's Seven Most Famous Historical Romantic Stories & the Artists Who Immortalised Them

NOW AVAILABLE ON KINDLE

Discover and appreciate the story behind paintings such as Queen Isabel the Catholic Dictating her Will, or the sad misadventure of Doña Juana La Loca (Queen Juana the Mad), who ends her days as Queen Juana la Loca, Secluded in Tordesillas with her Daughter, Infanta Doña Catalina.

And then there is also the cruel story behind Prince Don Carlos of Viana, and then the catastrophic saga behind the Conversion of the Duke of Gandia.

You will not want to miss the dramatic tale of The Lovers of Teruel, nor miss the heroic yet fatal story behind the Execution of Torrijos and his Companions on the Beach at Málaga.

BOOK READING & PRESENTATION

BOOK READING - CLICK HERE

CLOTILDE is a heart-warming story - about a woman who was driven by her unwavering love and devotion to her husband, the now legendary 19th and early 20th century master of light, the Valencian artist, Joaquín Sorolla.

MONASTERY OFFERS A VAST ARRAY OF ARCHITECTURAL WONDERS

The royal monastery of Sant Jeroni de Cotalba sits proudly on a small hill outside Gandia, in the district of Alfauir (Valencia). It is surrounded by nature, orange groves, hiking trails and picnic areas. Today it is a private estate open to the public at weekends, but over the last 600 years it has been a very special place for kings, queens, nobles and the Hieronymite order. Let's take a look....

* Report by art historian and educator , Karla Darocas, Hons. B.A. (KarlaDarocas.com)

* Copyright Karla Darocas 2018* (no part of this text or photographs may be reproduced)

IRONY IS IN THE WASH

In this 1871 painting by Seville artist José Jiménez Aranda, a group of women are working on their laundry.

The folksy characters of the washerwomen still conform to the Romantic trend of reporting on the lives of ordinary hard-working citizens, but the narrative now demands more insight into the psychology of the characters and the irony of the situation.

** Report by Karla Ingleton Darocas (KarlaDarocas.com)

ART SAVES SPANISH TOWN AND SURPRISES THE WORLD!

Looking for an inspiring story? How about the unique concept of an "open-air" art gallery that transformed a deprived village of 323 inhabitants in the Spanish province of Castellón, and is now part of a worldwide circuit of street art exhibitions?

Report by Karla Darocas, Hons. B. A. (KarlaDarocas.com) for SpainLifestyle.com

THE MYSTERY OF EL GRECO'S PAINTING OF SAINT SEBASTIAN

In his illustrious career, El Greco painted Saint Sebastian three times. The last of his three portraits from 1610 to 1614 found its way into the Prado Museum - but in two parts. Why?

Report by Karla Darocas, Hons. B. A. (KarlaDarocas.com) for SpainLifestyle.com

EL GRECO'S TINY TRIBUTE TO THE FATHER OF THE SACRED FAMILY

Why is El Greco's painting, the Flight into Egypt, c. 1570, so special? It is only a small oil painting on a prepared pine panel. It is mainly a landscape depiction with the Holy Family as figures in it. It shows El Greco's newly acquired knowledge of the Venetian style of painting, which was popular at the time due to the great Venetian master Titian.

* Report by Karla Ingleton Darocas, Hons. B.A. (KarlaDarocas.com)

A TRIBUTE TO A VICTORIOUS VALENCIANO - José de Ribera (1591-1652)

When I lived in Xàtiva in 2001, the town where my husband was born, I walked past the statue of José de Ribera every day. Our flat was on the same street as the basilica and the old hospital where my husband was born, and at the other end was the statue of José de Ribera, or Jusepe, as he is called in the Valencian language. 

José de Ribera was born in Xàtiva in 1591. His father was Simón Ribera, a shoemaker by trade, and his mother was Margarita Cucó. Although there are many documentary and bibliographical sources describing many aspects of Ribera's life and work, there is nothing about his childhood and youth in Xàtiva.

Report by Karla Ingleton Darocas (KarlaDarocas.com) (c) SpainLifestyle.com