Curatorial Note
The Other Face of the Avant: The Story Behind the Exhibition
Staged inside the distinguished galleries of Fundación MAPFRE Madrid – Sala Recoletos, 'The Other Face of the Avant-Garde' brings into sharp focus the compelling artistic vision of The Other Face of the Avant. As one of the highlight presentations of the cultural calendar, this exhibition offers visitors an unforgettable encounter with key masterworks and pivotal creative breakthroughs. The exhibition shows the link between avant-garde art and works by psychiatric patients. See how these pieces influenced modern artists.
The curatorial narrative examines the aesthetic evolution of The Other Face of the Avant, 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 Fundación MAPFRE Madrid – Sala Recoletos, 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
The exhibition shows the link between avant-garde art and works by psychiatric patients. See how these pieces influenced modern artists.
Curatorial Premise
A comprehensive exploration of the visual revolution and aesthetic mastery of The Other Face of the Avant.
“This exhibition invites audiences to look beyond traditional boundaries and discover the rich emotional depth of The Other Face of the Avant's creations.”
FM
Fundación MAPFRE Madrid – Sala Recoletos 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 Fundación MAPFRE Madrid – Sala Recoletos.
Key Highlights
Featured Exhibition Masterpieces
2026 Featured Masterpiece: The Other Face of the Avant-Garde
Curated Exhibition Highlight
The centerpiece of the exhibition, epitomizing the formal command and expressive brilliance of The Other Face of the Avant.
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 Fundación MAPFRE Madrid – Sala Recoletos.
OFFICIAL TICKETS & ADMISSION
Select Your Tickets & Timeslot
WHAT YOU WILL SEE
Key Masterpieces & Exhibition Highlights
- ✓Admission to the temporary exhibitions
- ✓Includes Audioguide ( Spanish and English)
Practical Visitor Information
Everything you need to know before visiting Fundación MAPFRE Madrid – Sala Recoletos
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 → Fundación MAPFRE Madrid – Sala Recoletos
For more than three decades, Fundación MAPFRE has been one of the focal points of Madrid's cultural agenda for its exhibitions of Fine Arts and Photography. Its program includes painting and sculpture exhibitions focused on the great protagonists (Renoir, Van Gogh, Picasso, Degas, Chagall, etc.) and the main movements of artistic modernity (Impressionism, Avant-garde, Surrealism, etc.). The Photography exhibitions also range from the great masters of the 20th century (Atget, Evans, Winogrand, Strand...) to those who represent the best expression of artistic photography today. The Foundation is located in the Palace of the Duchess of Medina de las Torres, built between 1881 and 1884, a building very representative of architecture.
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