This exhibition explores the work of Josep Maria Sert, a renowned painter of the early 20th century, showcasing two distinct series: 'The Marvellous Memories' (1916) and 'Spanish Evocations' (1942). It highlights his unique style, which blended baroque frescoes with expressionism and orientalist influences, reflecting his prominent status among European and American elites.
The Juan March Institute presents 'Josep M. Sert. Memories and Evocations,' an exhibition focusing on the life and work of Josep Maria Sert (1874-1945), a painter celebrated for his unique style that drew from baroque frescoes, Goyaesque expressionism, and orientalist features. The exhibition is divided into two key series: 'The Marvellous Memories' (1916), created for Sir Saxton Noble's residence, which reflects a colorful return to childhood games as a response to wartime realities and exhibits an art deco influence; and 'Spanish Evocations' (1942), designed for Juan March Ordinas's music room, showcasing Sert's more classical and monumental style in monochrome, achieving sculptural relief effects. The exhibition includes undated sketches and pieces related to commissions for residences in England, Madrid, and New York.
Sert's life was as intense and singular as his art, marked by a strong personality and ambition. Based in Paris from a young age, he maintained connections with prominent artistic, intellectual, and political figures of his era, becoming an extraordinary and charming personality. This exhibition brings together 27 pieces, including two decorative sets and sketches, all sourced from private collections, offering a comprehensive look at this unavoidable figure in recent social and cultural history.