Ponti Art Gallery is interested in buying and selling works
of art by this artist.
Manuel Rivera Biography
Manuel Rivera, sometimes known as Manuel Rivera Hernández, was a Spanish painter whose work and influence were pivotal in the post-World War II Spanish avant-garde movement. Born on April 23, 1927, in Granada, Spain, Rivera's journey into the world of art began at a young age, and his contributions would leave a lasting impact on the Spanish art scene.
At the age of 18, Rivera took a significant step towards his artistic career by enrolling in the Superior School of Fine Arts of Seville. His education there laid the foundation for his artistic philosophy and technique, which would evolve throughout his career. Rivera's early experiences in Seville were formative, and they marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to the arts.
Rivera's work is often associated with the Art Informel movement, a European counterpart to Abstract Expressionism, which emphasized texture and the physical act of painting. His style was characterized by a dynamic use of materials and a departure from traditional representational art. Rivera's innovative approach to texture and form made him a standout figure in the movement, and his work was celebrated for its originality and depth.
In 1957, Rivera, along with other artists, founded the influential "El Paso group" in Madrid. This collective was instrumental in revitalizing the Spanish art scene in the postwar period. The El Paso group advocated for artistic freedom and experimentation, rejecting the academic constraints of the time. They were at the forefront of introducing new artistic languages and techniques to Spain, and their work played a crucial role in the development of modern Spanish art.
Rivera's artistic production reached a peak during the 1960s, a period marked by prolific creation and innovation. One of his notable works from this time is "Metamorfosis (Imagen)" from 1960, which exemplifies his mature style and artistic concerns. His pieces from this era reflect a deep engagement with the materiality of painting, often incorporating metal screens and other unconventional materials to create textured, three-dimensional works.
Throughout his career, Rivera's art was exhibited in numerous galleries and museums, both in Spain and internationally. His works are part of prestigious collections, including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, which attests to his international recognition and the universal appeal of his art.
Rivera's influence extended beyond his own practice as he was also a mentor and inspiration to younger generations of artists. His commitment to innovation and his role in the El Paso group helped shape the trajectory of Spanish art in the 20th century.
Manuel Rivera's legacy is that of a pioneer who pushed the boundaries of what was possible in painting. His work is a testament to the power of artistic expression and the importance of challenging conventions. Rivera passed away on January 2, 1995, in Madrid, but his contributions to the world of art continue to be celebrated and studied. His life and work remain a source of inspiration for artists and art lovers alike, and his name is synonymous with the transformative power of the Spanish avant-garde movement.
Manuel Rivera 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.
If you wish to purchase works by the painter: Contact us
and let us know your request. We will inform you about the
available works. We also offer the possibility to
subscribe to our NEWSLETTER, through which you will be
informed at the beginning of each month about the latest
acquisitions of the art gallery.
You can send us pictures of the work: