Antonio Saura

Overview

"[...] the imperative need to cry out, to inundate surfaces and leave traces, to express oneself as if revealing the energetic possibilities of veing, to paint as a form of living, albeit through the amorous or destructive image of the female body, of a nothingless or of a whole, of a desperation or of a cosmic hunger, of a totality in expansion or of a concentric dynamic".

- Antonio Saura

Antonio Saura was a prominent Spanish painter and sculptor known for his profound and provocative works that explored themes of human suffering, anguish, and existentialism. Saura's artistic journey began with figurative expressionism before evolving into a distinctive style characterized by bold brushstrokes, distorted figures, and a haunting use of black and white. Drawing inspiration from artists like Francisco Goya and Pablo Picasso, Saura's oeuvre often delved into the depths of the human psyche, reflecting his own personal struggles and the socio-political climate of his time. Through his powerful visual language, Saura's art sought to confront and challenge viewers, leaving an indelible mark on the Spanish art scene and establishing him as a revered figure in modern art history.

Works

Biography

Antonio Saura (Huesca, 1930 – Cuenca, 1998) was a renowned Spanish painter and writer, best known for his contributions to the art movement known as Informalism. Mostly self-taught, Saura began painting and writing at the age of 15 while undergoing five years of confinement due to tuberculosis.

In his youth, Saura initially pursued studies in law, but his passion for art led him to abandon his legal career and move to Madrid in the early 1950s. There, he immersed himself in the vibrant art scene and began to experiment with different styles and techniques. Influenced by the works of Francisco Goya, Pablo Picasso, and Joan Miró, Saura developed a distinctive artistic style characterized by its expressive and abstract nature. In 1957, Saura became associated with the group El Paso, together with the critic José Ayllón and the artists Rafael Canogar, Luis Feito, Manolo Millares, Manuel Rivera, Juana Francés, Pablo Serrano, and Antonio Suárez, a collective of Spanish artists who sought to break away from the traditional and academic art of the time. This association further fueled Saura's exploration of abstraction and expressionism. His early works often featured distorted figures and bold, gestural brushstrokes, reflecting his interest in the human condition and the existential themes that permeated his art.

As Saura's career progressed, he began to incorporate more social and political commentary into his works. His paintings often reflected his concern for the human condition, focusing on themes such as war, violence, and the inherent contradictions of human existence. Saura's art became a powerful vehicle for expressing his critique of societal issues and the human psyche. In addition to his work as a painter, Saura was also a talented writer and poet. He published several books throughout his career, delving into topics related to art theory and philosophy. Saura's writings offered valuable insights into his artistic process and provided a deeper understanding of his creative vision.

Antonio Saura's artistic contributions earned him international recognition and acclaim. His works have been exhibited in major galleries and museums around the world, including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, the Centre Pompidou in Paris, and the Reina Sofia Museum in Madrid.

Exhibitions