Spanish Romanticism in painting, emerging in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, was a response to political upheaval, national identity struggles, and evolving artistic influences from Europe. Unlike the structured realism and compositions of Neoclassicism, Romanticism embraced emotion, drama, and individuality, often highlighting Spain’s historical past, cultural traditions, and exoticism.
Several distinct movements developed, each reflecting different aspects of Spanish Romanticism.
Immersive Journey into the Rise and Fall of Rococo in Spain!
Paris is currently celebrating José de Ribera (1591–1652), the late Renaissance and early Baroque master, with an extraordinary exhibition of over 100 paintings dedicated to the Valencian painter, who was born in Xàtiva. This celebration of Ribera's work offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore his legacy, and I have decided to do the same in an inspirational talk about his remarkable art. Ribera’s paintings are relatively easy to understand within the framework of the Baroque era. This was a time when the Catholic Church used art as a powerful form of propaganda, reminding people of the suffering of saints at the hands of the Romans to reinforce faith and counter the Protestant threat.
What I love about José de Ribera is not only his mastery of Caravaggio’s dramatic style but also his unique position as a painter outside the confines of a royal court. Unlike court painters who were often restricted to royal portraits, Ribera worked under the Spanish rulers of Naples, which allowed him to explore a wide range of subjects. His repertoire extends beyond tortured saints to some of the most unusual and compelling paintings, often with fascinating stories rooted in Spanish history.
Thank Goodness the Franciscan Convent of Benissa Was Not Turned Into a Hotel
Preserving the historical and architectural heritage of the Franciscan Convent in Benissa was a relief to many locals and history enthusiasts alike. Plans announced in 1917 to transform this storied convent into a hotel were met with mixed emotions, as the proposal risked altering the character of one of Benissa's most iconic landmarks. Instead, the convent remains a treasure of cultural and spiritual significance, even as its use evolves to accommodate modern realities.
Discover the Splendor of Spanish Renaissance Architecture: The Golden Age
Step back in time to the opulent world of 16th-century Spain, a period celebrated as the "Golden Age" of art, culture, and architecture. Book NOW for this engaging talk with slides where we will explore the iconic architectural styles, masterful architects, and royal patrons that defined an era of unparalleled wealth.
The door and portal of the Iglesia del Monasterio Jerónimo de la Concepción (Monasterio de San Jerónimo) in Granada, Andalucía, are remarkable examples of Renaissance architecture, crafted by Martín Díaz Navarrete around 1593.
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