Home > Latin Culture > Spain > Painters

Art is one of the major touristic offerings of Spain. A famous slogan of the country’s international tourism campaign once stated that "Spain is different," and when it refers to Spanish painters, we believe the slogan speaks nothing but the truth.

The origins of painting in Spain can be traced back to illuminated manuscripts and to remains in mural decoration. The 16th and part of the 17th century, considered as Spain’s Siglo de Oro (Golden century) saw several of the most important Spanish painters come to light: Velázquez, El Greco, Ribera and Murillo; whereas Francisco de Goya dominated the 18th century Spanish art panorama. Their paintings can be seen today in Madrid's Museo del Prado. Major painters of the 20th century (many who have worked abroad) include Juan Gris, Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí, and Picasso – with Picasso being widely regarded as the most innovative artist of the century. Their works can be found in Madrid’s Museo Reina Sofia, just a short walk from Prado’s.

Latin American art of the 20th century evolved from a complex relationship with the European avant-garde art movements. Diego Rivera, Botero and Kahlo are pivotal 20th century painters who are representative of the way Latin American artists accepted or rejected the international artistic tendencies in order to find and express their own national culture.

Because of Las Meninas (The Maids of Honor), which is regarded as one of the most viewed paintings in the world, it seems today that what people know about Spanish art begins and ends with Diego Velázquez alone. Yet there are so many more Spanish and Latin American painters who have left an impressive legacy in the artistic world... and we hope you get to know in this section. Enjoy!

delicious su Share
Read the Spanish version
Studying Spanish Credentials don Quijote Spanish school is recognized and accredited by:
Web page created with the sponsorship of the Madrid Chamber of Commerce (Cámara de Comercio e Industria de Madrid)