The Top Art Galleries in Marbella
Marbella is known more for swanky beach bars and millionaires’ yachts than it is for its art scene. Nevertheless, there are a number of interesting galleries to visit here, showcasing the work of major Spanish and international artists. Read on for our pick of the top art galleries in Marbella.
Ralli Museum
Museum
The Museo Ralli is situated a 10-minute drive to the west of Marbella and houses one of the best collections of Latin American art to be found anywhere in the world. Here you can see paintings and sculptures by 20th-century artists such as Argentina’s Leopoldo Torres Agüero, Cuba’s Wilfredo Lam and Chile’s Roberto Matta, as well as pieces by Dalí and Chagall.
Municipal Art Gallery
Art Gallery, Museum
Located in the heart of the old town on a lively square, the Municipal Art Gallery showcases the work of homegrown talent throughout the year. For no admission fee, you can enjoy the paintings, sculptures and ceramics being produced by some of Málaga province’s best artists. The gallery has little web presence, so just drop in to see what’s on.
Libertad Couso Gallery
Opened in 2010, the Libertad Couso Gallery specialises in contemporary painting, drawing and sculpture by leading international artists. The permanent collection currently contains about 400 pieces and there are always new works being added to Couso’s colourful walls. Libertad Couso, the gallery’s founder and owner, also holds weekly painting classes for any budding artists out there.
Art Wanson Gallery
Museum
Aptly, this stylish modern and contemporary art gallery is situated within the plush Marbella Club resort. Opened in 2008, the Art Wanson Gallery specialises in works by leading figures from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries, such as Cézanne, Picasso, Chagall and Bacon. Other media are also explored throughout the collection, including sculpture, ceramics and photography.
Magpie International
The Magpie International Gallery, located just a few streets back from Marbella’s yacht-lined harbour, is dedicated to showcasing the works of emerging Spanish and international artists. Magpie stages a new exhibition every month in elegantly decorated rooms; and for those who are thinking of purchasing a piece, there is even a rent-before-you-buy option.
Yusto/Giner
Yusto/Giner’s forté is contemporary work by different kinds of artists from all over the world, which is displayed in a vast, industrial space. The exhibitions change regularly and full details of artists and current exhibits can be found on the gallery’s excellent website. Recent collections have included those by Toronto-based Daniel Solomons and Japan’s Yuko Marata.
Fornara Gallery
The Fornara Gallery is located in the blingtastic marina of Puerto Banus, six miles out of Marbella city, and well worth a visit if you like discovering new and exciting artists. Ever since it opened in Italy in 1964, Fornara has been committed to showing off (mainly Italian) artists at the beginning of their careers.
Kasser Rassu
Viewings are by appointment only at Kasser Rassu, a smart private gallery situated opposite the Marbella Club Hotel. The gallery hosts a rotating calendar of exhibitions by local and international contemporary artists, which are showcased in a sleek space: simply call up, arrange a visit and enjoy an exclusive viewing experience.