Madrid is being graced with the stunning exhibition titled 'Flamboyant' by renowned Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos, which opened at the prestigious Palacio de Liria on February 14, 2024. This event has captured the attention of art lovers and institutions alike, running until July 31. It forms part of the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Fundación Casa de Alba, aligning with ambitious efforts to promote contemporary art within historical contexts.
Vasconcelos, who has garnered international acclaim over her 30-year career, is known for her monumental sculptures and installations, often incorporating everyday materials and themes relating to feminism and cultural identity. Her latest work transforms the royal residency with 50 impressive installations, effectively creating dialogues between her pieces and the historical artworks of masters like Goya, Velázquez, and Tiziano. This organic fusion greatly enhances the visitor's experience, offering not just visual artistry but also historical reflections.
Upon arriving, guests can witness the remarkable crochet-covered piano, which Vasconcelos explained took more than a year to complete. "The crochet is handmade from the Azores. The piano is covered, and the crochet protects the pieces of its world, giving it new meaning. It’s about giving the object a new identity, a luxurious 'look'," the artist remarked during the opening. This piece embodies the intersection of craft and luxury, symbolizing the broader artistic dialogue Vasconcelos aims to create.
Among the exhibition's highlights are the giant sandals named 'Marilyn', constructed from everyday cooking pots, which Vasconcelos uses to draw poignant connections to the traditional roles of women. "These are not just shoes; they represent the duality of women—caretakers at home and public figures today," she elaborated. The sandals serve as bold feminist commentary, blending the historical with contemporary perspectives, illustrating the evolution of the feminine role against the backdrop of modern society.
Another notable installation is 'La Théière', which Vasconcelos created expressly for this exhibition. The sculpture honors Queen Catherine of Braganza, known for introducing the custom of afternoon tea to England. Vasconcelos described Catherine as, "a woman who was much greater than her time", adding depth and cultural relevance to the work. The piece is wrought iron, reflecting Portuguese traditions, and signifies embrace of heritage within contemporary narratives.
The exhibition also gives visitors access to previously restricted areas of the palace, including the chapel and various gardens, allowing them to experience Vasconcelos' art intertwined with the rich history of the palace. The chapel features the 'Flaming Heart', which Vasconcelos explained is inspired by Maria Magdalena, adding layers of significance to the setting.
Drawing connections to her earlier works, Vasconcelos emphasizes the role of traditional Portuguese culture through installations such as 'Coração Independente Preto', celebrating the essence of fado music. Constructed from plastic forks, it's showcased within a room adorned with the works of other famous artists. "When I transport the piece, I encapsulate Portugal and its culture; fado thrives where dining and music intertwine," she noted passionately.
Crucial to the exhibition's allure is the collaboration with Maison Dior, which goes back over a decade. The ties between Vasconcelos and the French fashion powerhouse are distinctly reflected through installations like 'J'Adore Miss Dior', fashioned from perfume bottles, and the newly created 'Valkyrie Thyra'. These pieces exemplify the intersection of fashion and fine art, enriching the narrative of both Dior's legacy and Vasconcelos' creative ethos.
The exhibition invites guests to immerse themselves not just in art but also the environment of one of Spain's historical landmarks, situationally complementing both the historical fabric of the Palacio and the modern expressions of Vasconcelos. With the stunning backdrop of Liria, her works engage with the surroundings, making it clear why the show is considered groundbreaking.
'Flamboyant' is far more than just an art exhibition; it is emblematic of cultural identity, women's empowerment, and the continuous interplay between past and present. Those fortunate enough to visit the Palacio de Liria this summer will find themselves walking through both art and history—a true celebration of creativity and recognition of tradition interwoven with modernity.