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.