Curatorial Note
Eli Cortiñas: The Story Behind the Exhibition
Staged inside the distinguished galleries of Museo Reina Sofía, 'Eli Cortiñas: The Machine Dreams of Smoke' brings into sharp focus the compelling artistic vision of Eli Cortiñas. As one of the highlight presentations of the cultural calendar, this exhibition offers visitors an unforgettable encounter with key masterworks and pivotal creative breakthroughs. Visit the Museo Reina Sofía to see Eli Cortiñas' video-graphic work, _The Most Given of Givens_, from 2016. This exhibition is an update on Cortiñas' ten years of research.
The curatorial narrative examines the aesthetic evolution of Eli Cortiñas, highlighting the nuanced handling of light, palette, and spatial rhythm. By assembling rare loans alongside signature works, the presentation reveals how the artist continually reshaped European visual culture.
Surrounded by the monumental architecture of Museo Reina Sofía, the installation establishes a luminous, contemplative atmosphere. Each gallery room has been thoughtfully paced to provide art enthusiasts and curious travelers with an inspiring and immersive museum experience.
Curatorial Perspective
Visit the Museo Reina Sofía to see Eli Cortiñas' video-graphic work, _The Most Given of Givens_, from 2016. This exhibition is an update on Cortiñas' ten years of research.
Curatorial Premise
A comprehensive exploration of the visual revolution and aesthetic mastery of Eli Cortiñas.
“This exhibition invites audiences to look beyond traditional boundaries and discover the rich emotional depth of Eli Cortiñas's creations.”
MR
Museo Reina Sofía Curatorial Department
Chief Curatorial Team
Curated Room-by-Room Walkthrough
Thematic Journey & Exhibition Rooms
01 Origins
Formative Years & Early Vision
Early exploratory works and seminal influences that laid the groundwork for future mastery.
02 Core Masterpieces
The Height of Mastery
The definitive mid-career triumphs where technical virtuosity and emotional power reached their zenith.
03 Monumental Vista
Enduring Legacy & Dialogue
The lasting resonance of this artistic journey set in dialogue with the permanent collections of Museo Reina Sofía.
Key Highlights
Featured Exhibition Masterpieces
2026 Featured Masterpiece: Eli Cortiñas: The Machine Dreams of Smoke
Curated Exhibition Highlight
The centerpiece of the exhibition, epitomizing the formal command and expressive brilliance of Eli Cortiñas.
Artistic Study Preparatory Studies & Cartoons
Archival & Curatorial Selection
Intimate preparatory drawings revealing the artist's structural methodology and draftsmanship.
Permanent Setting Exhibition Gallery Installation
Gallery & Spatial Perspective
The luminous curatorial staging inside the historic gallery chambers of Museo Reina Sofía.
OFFICIAL TICKETS & ADMISSION
Select Your Tickets & Timeslot
WHAT YOU WILL SEE
Key Masterpieces & Exhibition Highlights
- ✓Skip-the-line entry
- ✓Access to the permanent collection
- ✓Access to the temporary exhibitions
Practical Visitor Information
Everything you need to know before visiting Museo Reina Sofía
Opening Hours
Mon - Sun: 09:00 - 18:00
Last entry 45 min before closing Public Transit
Metro / Bus station nearby
Recommended Duration
approx. 1.5 - 2 hours
Average visit duration The Museum
Explore Museum Guide & Permanent Collection → Museo Reina Sofía
Remodeled and converted into a museum in 1992, this 18th-century hospital holds Madrid’s premier collection of contemporary art. It's collection includes Picasso’s Guernica, which is arguably Spain’s single-most famous artwork. The Museo Reina Sofía also holds works by the other 20th-century titans of Spanish art, Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró.
More to explore in Madrid
Combine your visit with other top exhibitions
24 Sep 2026 – 10 Jan 2027
€5.00
Fundación MAPFRE Madrid – Sala Recoletos
Women Artists: Pathways Through Pre-Raphaelitism (1850–1914)
Fundación MAPFRE Madrid – Sala Recoletos, Madrid
Available Today
→
24 Sep 2026 – 10 Jan 2027
€5.00
Fundación MAPFRE Madrid – Sala Recoletos
The Other Face of the Avant-Garde
Fundación MAPFRE Madrid – Sala Recoletos, Madrid
Available Today
→
24 Sep 2026 – 10 Jan 2027
€5.00
Fundación MAPFRE Madrid – Sala Recoletos
Minor White
Fundación MAPFRE Madrid – Sala Recoletos, Madrid
Available Today
→
23 Sep 2026 – 8 Mar 2027
€12.00
Museo Reina Sofía
Eli Cortiñas: The Machine Dreams of Smoke
Museo Reina Sofía, Madrid
Available Today
→
23 Jun 2026 – 27 Sep 2026
€18.00
Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
Carmen Laffón: Variaciones
Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza, Madrid
Available Today
→
26 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027
€12.00
Museo Reina Sofía
Andrea Canepa: Fardo
Museo Reina Sofía, Madrid
Available Today
→