Joana Vasconcelos transforms Madrid Palace
Vasconcelos, one of the most outstanding figures on the contemporary art scene, has made similar interventions in other palaces such as Versailles, the Uffizi in Florence or Ajuda in Lisbon.
In celebration of The Casa de Alba Foundation’s 50th anniversary, renowned Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos has unveiled Flamboyant, a stunning exhibition featuring 40 of her latest works at the historic Liria Palace.
Running from February 14 to July 31, the exhibition offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore previously unseen rooms of the 18th-century neoclassical landmark while engaging in a visionary dialogue between past and present.
Built by architect Ventura Rodríguez, Liria Palace is one of Madrid’s most iconic cultural treasures, housing masterpieces by artists such as Velázquez, Goya, and Tiziano.
Vasconcelos’s exhibition seamlessly integrates her contemporary sculptures and installations into the palace’s opulent halls and gardens, creating a dynamic interplay between her work and the palace’s rich artistic legacy.
This marks the first time Vasconcelos has exhibited in an inhabited palace, as Liria remains the private residence of the Duke of Alba, Carlos Fitz-James Stuart.
“The Liria Palace is not a repository of history, but a living space that adjusts to contemporary contexts while preserving its essence,” said Vasconcelos.
Her works, known for their bold use of materials and immersive qualities, are strategically placed throughout the palace, including spaces like the chapel, music room, and gardens, which are opening to the public for the first time.
The exhibition begins with Vigoroso e Poderoso (2006-2024), two lion-shaped guardians crafted from cement and adorned with crochet, symbolizing the delicate balance between strength and fragility.
In the chapel, Flaming Heart (2019-2022) captivates visitors with its cascading embroidered fabric and pulsating LED lights, evoking the rhythm of a heartbeat and infusing the sacred space with a modern vitality.
Vasconcelos’s artistry extends beyond large-scale installations. A curated selection of her smaller works, including jewelry, drawings, and models, is also on display, showcasing her signature use of materials like crochet and ceramic tiles. Pieces such as Gestalt (2017), BonBon (2021), and Hypercube (2014) highlight her versatility, while her iconic Bolo de Noiva (Wedding Cake) adds a touch of whimsy to the exhibition.
The Duke of Alba, a longtime patron of the arts, emphasized the importance of blending historical and contemporary art.
“It is practically a duty to open the house to contemporary art with one of the world’s leading artists,” he said.
“The portraits of my ancestors, signed by masters like Goya and Tiziano, now coexist with Joana Vasconcelos’s surprising work, bringing together the past and the present.”
Supported by Madrid City Council, the Community of Madrid, and the House of Dior, Flamboyant is a testament to Vasconcelos’s ability to reimagine historical spaces.
The exhibition not only revitalizes Liria Palace but also underscores the enduring relevance of contemporary art in fostering a deeper appreciation for cultural heritage.
Visitors to Liria Palace are invited to immerse themselves in this transformative experience, where the boundaries between history and modernity blur, and the vibrant spirit of Joana Vasconcelos’s artistry breathes new life into one of Madrid’s most cherished landmarks.
Wow! As a newcomer, I was introduced to Joana’s work at the Maat. I had the pleasure of partaking in the yoga classes in the installation. Her work is such a gift! Thanks for letting us know about this. Now let’s see if I can get to Espanha!