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Unveiling Goya's Evolving Perspective: "El despertar de la conciencia" at San Fernando Fine Arts Museum

Examine Goya's profound artistic shift from tradition to critical social commentary, featuring his restored copper plates for the first time.

Explore Francisco de Goya's profound transformation in attitude and artistic expression, from his early works to his mature, critical masterpieces. This exhibition at San Fernando Fine Arts Museum meticulously examines his significant shift in outlook and artistic practice. Witness his transition from traditional styles to developing a critical stance, using art as a powerful medium for social commentary.

About Goya. El despertar de la conciencia at Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando in Madrid

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Goya. El despertar de la conciencia at Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando in Madrid

Exhibition summary

This exhibition delves into Francisco de Goya's evolving perspective on the world, showcased through his graphic and pictorial creations. It features the complete set of copper plates used for his prints, presented for the first time after restoration, highlighting the artist's shift from academic tradition to critical social commentary.

Curatorial context

The exhibition 'Goya. El despertar de la conciencia' meticulously examines the significant shift in Francisco de Goya's (1746-1828) outlook and artistic practice throughout his career. It highlights his transition from an artist aligned with the prevailing styles of his time to one who developed a critical stance towards surrounding reality and dominant artistic norms. The exhibition is structured into four sections: 'The Painter, the Norm, and the Clientele'; 'The Awakening of Consciousness'; 'A Painting Beyond Style'; and 'The Expressiveness of Reason.' These sections are brought to life through a collection of paintings, drawings, plates, and prints, illustrating Goya's artistic and vital evolution. A unique feature of this exhibition is the presentation of the entirety of Goya's copper plates for his print series, including 'Los Caprichos,' 'Los Desastres de la Guerra,' and 'Los Disparates,' all recently restored and displayed for the first time. These works underscore Goya's transformation into a painter whose art served not merely as a profession but as a powerful medium for expressing his vital and critical perspective on life and society.

Admission and ticket notes

The museum offers entry tickets, and visitors are directed to purchase them via an external ticketing platform. General museum admission appears to grant access, but specific exhibition ticketing details are not provided on this page beyond a link to purchase tickets for the museum.

Goya. El despertar de la conciencia key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Goya. El despertar de la conciencia at Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando in Madrid

Venue
Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando
Current status
Open now
Exhibition schedule
Information not currently available
Artist line / attribution
Francisco de Goya (1746-1828) is the central artist for this exhibition. The exhibition is curated by Víctor Nieto Alcaide, a distinguished art historian and professor.
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