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Manolo Millares Biography
Manolo Millares was a pivotal figure in the post-war Spanish art scene, renowned for his innovative and emotionally charged artworks that bridged the gap between Surrealism and abstract expressionism. Born on January 17, 1926, in Las Palmas, Canary Islands, Millares was largely self-taught as an artist. His early works were influenced by Surrealism, particularly the works of Paul Klee and Joan Miró, which is evident in his initial foray into landscape painting. However, his artistic journey took a significant turn towards abstraction and the use of unconventional materials, marking his departure from traditional painting techniques.
In 1949, Millares began experimenting with abstraction, a move that coincided with his co-founding of the magazine Planas de Poesia and directing the series of art monographs Argueros. His innovative spirit led him to create his first collages in 1954, utilizing materials such as sackcloth, ceramics, wood, and sand. This period of experimentation aligned him closely with Antoni Tàpies and the Art Informel movement, which rejected conventional art-making approaches in favor of more experimental techniques. Millares' work during this time also showed an affinity with the Arte Povera movement through his incorporation of burns in his collage paintings, reminiscent of Alberto Burri's work.
In 1955, Millares moved to Madrid, where he became a central figure in the post-war avant-garde scene. His relocation to the mainland of Spain marked a significant phase in his career, as he immersed himself in the vibrant artistic community of the capital. It was in Madrid that he co-founded the influential avant-garde group El Paso (The Step) in 1957, alongside Antonio Saura, Luis Feito, and Rafael Canogar. The formation of El Paso was a declaration of intent from Spanish modernists to establish connections with the European avant-garde, particularly the French Art Informel movement, after years of isolation due to the Spanish Civil War and the Franco dictatorship.
Millares' work from the mid-1950s onwards is characterized by his use of burlap sackcloth, which he employed to create dramatic collages. These works, often in somber tones of black, white, and red, were deeply rooted in the pre-history of the Canary Islands and the culture of the Guanches, the islands' aboriginal inhabitants. The use of burlap, a material associated with the wrapping of embalmed corpses by the Guanches, lent his artworks a visceral and emotive quality. Millares manipulated the burlap by stretching, tearing, and sewing it, creating textures and voids that conveyed a sense of anguish and vulnerability.
Millares' art was not only a means of aesthetic exploration but also a vehicle for political and social commentary. His works often referenced long-gone civilizations, reflecting on themes of conquest, assimilation, and the human condition. This engagement with historical and contemporary issues positioned him within the Informalist movement, which emphasized formal experimentation and political engagement.
Throughout his career, Millares gained international recognition, with his works being exhibited in prestigious venues such as the Pierre Matisse Gallery in New York and the Venice Biennale. His participation in major exhibitions, including the European Art Today: 35 Painters and Sculptors exhibition at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts and Before Picasso: After Miró at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, further cemented his status as a leading figure in the art world.
Manolo Millares' contributions to the art world extended beyond his own practice. He was an active figure in various post-war Spanish avant-garde movements and played a crucial role in revolutionizing Spanish art. His innovative use of materials, combined with his profound engagement with historical and contemporary issues, left an indelible mark on the art world. Millares passed away on August 14, 1972, in Madrid, but his legacy continues to inspire and influence artists and art enthusiasts around the globe.
Manolo Millares Quotes and
Sales of Works
Ponti Art Gallery selects and deals with paintings by the
artist. Upon request, we provide free estimates and
evaluations, communicate prices, quotations, and current
market values.
If you are interested in BUYING or SELLING works by the
artist, contact us immediately.
If you wish to sell or receive an evaluation of the
works:
Send us a frontal photo of the painting, one of the back,
and one of the signature. Also, indicate the dimensions of
the work. Inform us about the purchase origin of the work
and any kind of available documentation (purchase
receipts, certificates of authenticity, publications). One
of our operators will respond to you on the same day. We
guarantee maximum confidentiality and extreme
professionalism.
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