Madrid’s art scene is considered to be one of the best in Europe thanks to museums like the Prado and Reina Sofía, as well as plenty of trendy galleries. However, temporary art shows, fairs and exhibitions often come out of the woodwork during winter, when the temperatures drop and the sun sets early. Here are some of the top art shows to check out in Madrid during the colder months.
Madrid’s annual International Contemporary Art Fair is one of the biggest cultural events of the year. Located within the enormous IFEMA convention center, ARCO spans two giant halls, so plan to spend an entire day (or two) enjoying the many installations created by artists from around the world. Highlights of this year’s exhibition include graphic art from Sabrina Amrani on surfaces such as leather and wood, and human interest photography from Cinnnamon Gallery.
Until April 24, 2017 A special event dedicated to graphic artist and painter Marc Chagall, Chagall: Divino y Humano (Chagall: Divine and Human) features work from Chagall from over almost four continuous decades. Over 100 masterpieces are present, and visitors are encouraged to contemplate the relationship between religion, history and mankind when viewing the artist’s exhibits. Those low on funds should make sure to add this show to their list – it’s one of the few art events in Madrid that’s free!
Until March 19, 2017 The Sorolla Museum is a hidden gem in Madrid, featuring the life and works of Joaquín Sorolla within his former mansion. Sorolla in Paris showcases the paintings he hoped to gain international recognition for in 20th century Paris. Once you’ve wandered through the exhibition, head out to the quaint little garden courtyard located in the museum grounds. Even in winter, the fountains and plants make for a charming background to a leisurely stroll.
Until March 20, 2017 In the name of satire, French artist Anne-Marie Schneider’s best works will be on display at the Reina Sofía Museum, from her initial charcoal drawings, linear and stark, to her introduction of color in the early 1990s. Also on display are some of her most famous oil paintings and drawings inspired by Beauty and the Beast. Her black humor and occasional references to violence make the collection dark but intriguing. In the name of satire, French artist Anne-Marie Schneider’s best works will be on display at the Reina Sofía Museum, from her initial charcoal drawings, linear and stark, to her introduction of color in the early 1990s. Also on display are some of her most famous oil paintings and drawings inspired by Beauty and the Beast. Her black humor and occasional references to violence make the collection dark but intriguing.
Until February 19, 2017 Feminists can rejoice: The Art of Clara Peeters is the first exhibition at the Prado Museum to be devoted to a female artist. Clara Peeters, a Dutch painter, was one of the few women who made a career out of painting in early modern Europe. She focused mainly on still life works, and the carefully curated show features 15 of Peeters’ best paintings from different collections around the world. Besides enjoying the art itself, visitors are given the chance to reflect on the difficulties and lack of opportunities female artists faced in the early 17th century.
February 21-26, 2017 This is the eighth edition of the Emerging Art Fair in Madrid. The exhibition focuses on contemporary emerging artists, showcasing their paintings, sculptures, photography, graphic art and other mediums. This year, artists will be arriving from Portugal, Cuba, China, and Germany, among other destinations, to display their work. Those with a VIP pass to ARCO will be able to enter this event for free.
Until February 26, 2017 Featuring several paintings from artists inspired by Rome such as Canaletto and Gaspar van Wittel, the Bulgari and Rome exhibition also boasts over 145 pieces of jewelry from the Heritage Bulgari collection. The collection showcases the delicate relationship between Rome’s art and fashion scene, in addition highlighting how features of Roman architecture are found within jewelry. Elizabeth Taylor fans can admire items from her personal collection that are on display, as well as pieces from Anna Magnani and Baroness Thyssen.
Featuring 22 works of art from museums across Spain and Italy, Carlos III. Majestad y Ornato (Charles III. Majestic and Ornate) sheds light on the life and family of King Carlos III of Spain, in addition to explaining the symbiotic relationship between royalty and artistic culture. The collection includes paintings by Francisco Goya, Giambattista Tiepolo and Anton Raphael Mengs.
