All posts tagged: Barcelona

B-Murals Presents “TIME” – Franco Fasoli in Barcelona

B-Murals Presents “TIME” – Franco Fasoli in Barcelona

At a time when Barcelona has received criticism for allowing iconic murals to disappear, it is a joyful sight to witness street artist and muralist Jaz create a new iconic one after full immersion into the neighborhood of Trinidad Nova. Similarly, it is gratifying to see a contemporary painter creating something relevant and new for a community rather than creating banal niceties or, worse, using public space to sell a sneaker or brand.

Franco Fasoli for Difusor/B-Murals. TIME project. Trinitat Nova, Barcelona. Spain. (photos © Fer Alcala)

Intended as part of a permanent dialogue between the neighborhood and artist, this clearly links to the people’s fighting spirit here, complete with pugnacious bulls, roaring boars, and rebels on motorcycles. The Argentinian consulted closely over a period of weeks with panels of leaders, circles of residents, experts, and historians in the square.

Franco Fasoli for Difusor/B-Murals. TIME project. Trinitat Nova, Barcelona. Spain. (photos © Fer Alcala)

A coalition project under the auspices of B-Murals, Centro de Arte Urbano, and School of Restoration and Conservation of Cultural Heritage of Catalonia, Jaz integrated histories and aspirations into a triumphant, defiant, and uniquely expressive tableau worthy of a people. With his talents, the artist reflects the community and empowers it – honoring a TIME of the past while propelling its intentions of actualization into a TIME of the future…

Franco Fasoli for Difusor/B-Murals. TIME project. Trinitat Nova, Barcelona. Spain. (photos © Fer Alcala)
Franco Fasoli for Difusor/B-Murals. TIME project. Trinitat Nova, Barcelona. Spain. (photos © Fer Alcala)
Franco Fasoli for Difusor/B-Murals. TIME project. Trinitat Nova, Barcelona. Spain. (photos © Fer Alcala)
Franco Fasoli for Difusor/B-Murals. TIME project. Trinitat Nova, Barcelona. Spain. (photos © Fer Alcala)
Franco Fasoli for Difusor/B-Murals. TIME project. Trinitat Nova, Barcelona. Spain. (photos © Fer Alcala)
Franco Fasoli for Difusor/B-Murals. TIME project. Trinitat Nova, Barcelona. Spain. (photos © Fer Alcala)
Franco Fasoli for Difusor/B-Murals. TIME project. Trinitat Nova, Barcelona. Spain. (photos © Fer Alcala)
Franco Fasoli for Difusor/B-Murals. TIME project. Trinitat Nova, Barcelona. Spain. (photos © Fer Alcala)
Franco Fasoli for Difusor/B-Murals. TIME project. Trinitat Nova, Barcelona. Spain. (photos © Fer Alcala)
Franco Fasoli for Difusor/B-Murals. TIME project. Trinitat Nova, Barcelona. Spain. (photos © Fer Alcala)
Franco Fasoli for Difusor/B-Murals. TIME project. Trinitat Nova, Barcelona. Spain. (photos © Fer Alcala)
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Lluis Olive Shoots “The Photographer”: Summer Dispatch from Barcelona I

Lluis Olive Shoots “The Photographer”: Summer Dispatch from Barcelona I

In our ultimate meta-posting, today we feature photos from street photographer Lluis Olive of images left on the street by an artist named “The Photographer”. Needless to say, much of the past graffiti and Street Art would not even be discussed today without a small pool of photographers who documented the scene at great cost to themselves.

The Photographer. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)

Despite the ocean of cameras in use today, it is still true that very few are directed by even-handed photographers whose interest is not simply in their favorites, but documenting a greater scene. Unfortunately, it’s still rare to find a good photographer on the street, but we think we got the shot this time.

The Photographer. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
The Photographer. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
The Photographer. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
The Photographer. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
The Photographer. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
The Photographer. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
The Photographer. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
The Photographer. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
The Photographer. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
The Photographer. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
The Photographer. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
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“Muralitos” in Barcelona: A Weekend Paint Jam With Friends

“Muralitos” in Barcelona: A Weekend Paint Jam With Friends

The springtime wall jams have begun! And random Saturdays or Sundays are usually perfect days to schedule an event in many cities – since most people have time off during that time, depending on their work schedule. If an artist is lucky enough to have a job these days…

An informally organized event like this provides an opportunity to explore and create alongside peers, converse and discuss ideas and techniques, and hang out with visitors who stop by saying hello.

Lidia Martinez. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Lidia Martinez. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)

“We thought it was a good idea that we could notify each time any of us was going to paint,” says Spanish artist Jaume Montserrat, “in case someone else wanted to accompany them and have a good time doing what we like so much.”

He says he and his buddies have a WhatsApp group to keep each other apprised of their street art and mural projects. For this particular Sunday a couple of weeks ago, it was as simple as reaching out via text to fellow artist Núria Farré, he tells us.

Pablo Navas. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Pablo Navas. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Laia Mas)

“I wrote to her asking if she would like to do it on one of Wallspot’s legal walls, and when we found a date that suited us, we decided to invite some friends.”

BSA contributor and photographer Fer Acala was there in Barcelona to capture the action and the art, and we’re pleased to share his shots of the artists at work and the days’ activities.

Núria Farré. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Núria Farré. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Núria Farré. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Juanjo Sáez. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Juanjo Sáez. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Juanjo Sáez. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
The artists with Juanjo Sáez mural in the background. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Antón G. Seoane. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Antón G. Seoane. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Antón G. Seoane. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Antón G. Seoane. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Senyoerre)
Sigrid Amores. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Sigrid Amores. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Sigrid Amores. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Maria Cuellar & Rabassa. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Maria Cuellar & Rabassa. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Jaume Montserrat)
Valiente Creations. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Valiente Creations. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Valiente Creations. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Valiente Creations. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Jaume Montserrat. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Jaume Montserrat. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
Jaume Montserrat & Valiente Creations. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)
The happy artists doing what they love to do most. Muralitos in Barcelona. (photo © Fer Alcala)

Our thanks to Fer Alcala for sharing his excellent photos with us and BSA readers.
Artists include:
Irene Valiente (@valiente_creations)
Sigrid Amores (@sigridamores)
Pablo Navas (@pabl0navas)
Antón G, Seoane (@antonseoane)
Juanjo Sáez (@juanjo_saez)
Núrria Farré (@nuriafarreabejon)
Maria Cuellar (@mariacuellar.m)
Lidia Martinez (@lidia.mpakkete)
Rabassa (@israbassa)
Jaume Montserrat (@jaumemontserrat)

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Women’s Murals Vandalized in Madrid, Newly Created in Barcelona

Women’s Murals Vandalized in Madrid, Newly Created in Barcelona

International Women’s Day is only controversial for those who feel threatened by the idea of equality and freedom.

Perhaps that’s why, according to current statistics, women continue to fight and protest against the gender wage gap in Spain, as well as against violence against women. The national female unemployment rate is 17.4%, compared to 13.8% for men.

A vandalized mural by the Unlogic collective celebrating the International Day of the Woman in Madrid. Photo © Víctor Sainz

In the Madrid district of Ciudad Lineal, a vandalized mural of 15 pioneering women like Rosa Parks, Nina Simone, Frida Kahlo, and Billie Jean King must have appeared dangerous in some way to a group of (presumably) men – an enormous act of defacement of a painting that joined others that day around the city. The mural had been under threat for weeks, according to The Guardian.

Elsewhere in Barcelona, strident activist painters created new murals in Tres Chimeneas Park to celebrate International Women’s Day this past weekend. We’re pleased to share with you a selection of the murals painted for the occasion courtesy of BSA contributor Lluis Olive Bulbena.

Sigrid Amores. Arte Porvo. Plaza De Las 3 Xemeneies. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Perrine Honore. Elena Gno. Plaza De Las 3 Xemeneies. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
La Castillo. Plaza De Las 3 Xemeneies. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
La Castillo. Plaza De Las 3 Xemeneies. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Patricia Alsur. Malenita N Mal. Plaza De Las 3 Xemeneies. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Patricia Alsur. Malenita N Mal. Plaza De Las 3 Xemeneies. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Patricia Alsur. Malenita N Mal. Plaza De Las 3 Xemeneies. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Magia Trece. Plaza De Las 3 Xemeneies. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Magia Trece. Plaza De Las 3 Xemeneies. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Las Migras De Abyayala. Plaza De Las 3 Xemeneies. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Las Migras De Abyayala. Plaza De Las 3 Xemeneies. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Las Migras De Abyayala. Plaza De Las 3 Xemeneies. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
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A Mural Jam and Censorship: Fighting for Freedom Of Expression In Barcelona – Part III

A Mural Jam and Censorship: Fighting for Freedom Of Expression In Barcelona – Part III

In the US, families of military veterans say, “Freedom isn’t free.” It refers to the enormous amount of sacrifice people have to make – military and civilians alike – to guarantee that societies provide a fulsome measure of freedom and autonomy to their citizens. Likewise, free speech has to be fought for periodically to ensure that people have it – because it can be so swiftly taken away if we are not vigilant.

Anton Seoane. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)

In our third installment of the murals painted in February in Barcelona, Spain, we are reminded that historically, the artist is often one of an oppressive government’s targets. It is somewhat sequential, the positions and stations in society who gradually are targeted for slurring and silencing. Academics, clergy, the press – a building degradation of respect for institutions and trust across the board.

Anton Seoane. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)

These artists express their opinions in defiance of silencing because, inherently, they fight for everyone’s right to freedom of speech and expression, regardless of our comfort or discomfort with the ideas expressed. Because they must.

Zosen. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Zosen. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Konair. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Konair. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Kader. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Kader. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Reskate and Javier de Riba. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Reskate. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Javier De Riba. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Reskate and Javier De Riba. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Reos. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Owen. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Owen. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
El Rughi. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
El Rughi. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Marina Capdevila. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Marina Capdevila. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Aram Rah and Jalon De Aquiles. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Aram Rah and Jalon De Aquiles. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Aram Rah and Jalon De Aquiles. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Magia Trece and Doctor Toy. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Magia Trece and Doctor Toy. Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Enric Font. Selva Del Mar. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)

See our other articles on this topic:

A Mural Jam and Censorship: Fighting for Freedom Of Expression In Barcelona – Part II

A Mural Jam and Censorship: Fighting for Freedom Of Expression In Barcelona – Part I

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A Mural Jam and Censorship: Fighting for Freedom Of Expression In Barcelona – Part II

A Mural Jam and Censorship: Fighting for Freedom Of Expression In Barcelona – Part II

It is notable when an organized gang of aerosol-wielding vandals protests your protest against censorship with censorship.

It’s also odious.

Everyone knows that it is normal for graffiti writers and street artists to expect that their ephemeral work may be buffed by a municipality or crossed out by a rival painter. This is a different matter entirely.

This is our 2nd time to bring you this story from a paint jam in Barcelona’s Plaza de las Tres Chimeneas where a collection of artists gathered to paint works addressing what they see as an unjust attack on the freedom of a citizen to express opinions in lyrics and writings. Taken together, these works are a passionate rejection of censorship and a colorful act of free speech by a community.

It made international news last month when Pablo Hasel, a Spanish rapper/singer/artist/musician from this city, was imprisoned under a Supreme Court ruling, which found his lyrics about King Emeritus Juan Carlos De Borbon to be offensive.

Roc Blackblock. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)

Artist Roc Blackblock was surrounded by a tight semi-circle of scrutinizing journalists and citizens as he painted. This was his second mural since his first had been immediately censored and ordered removed at the action in mid-February by an NCNeta brigade who a Barcelona Urban Guard escorted. He didn’t appear to mind the pressure.

Roc Blackblock. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Roc Blackblock. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)

Because there have been demonstrations in various cities and because modern media drools over scenes of destruction and violence, it’s easy to forget the many peaceful artists who paint their opinions, says documentary photographer Fernando Alcalá, who shares his work here.

“I think it’s important to keep speaking about the artistic actions when, after days of riots and looting, the media has forgotten about freedom of speech, and they just talk about burnt trash cans,” he says.

We’re happy that he captured these before they were destroyed by ‘Union de Brigadas,’ who recorded their censorious actions proudly and shared them on Twitter and YouTube.

Roc Blackblock. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Roc Blackblock with Jaume Montserrat piece on the right. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Jaume Montserrat. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Jaume Montserrat. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Roc Blackblock. Nau Bostik. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Roc Blackblock. Nau Bostik. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Roc Blackblock. Nau Bostik. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Bravopintor. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
La Castillo. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)

I think it’s important to keep speaking about the artistic actions when, after days of riots and looting, the media has forgotten about freedom of speech and they just talk about burnt trash cans.”

~Fernando Alcalá

A paramilitaristic homage to the Beatles Abbey Road. La Castillo. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Edjinn. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Juanjo Surace. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Juanjo Surace. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Dazo & Mus. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Dazo & Mus. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Valiente Creations. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Valiente Creations. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Sigrid Amores, Tres Voltes Rebel, ARTEPORVO, and Elna Or. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Sigrid Amores, Tres Voltes Rebel, ARTEPORVO, and Elna Or. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Sigrid Amores, Tres Voltes Rebel, ARTEPORVO, and Elna Or. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Martz. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Martz. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)

See our other articles on this topic:

A Mural Jam and Censorship: Fighting for Freedom Of Expression In Barcelona – Part I

A Mural Jam and Censorship: Fighting for Freedom Of Expression In Barcelona – Part III

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A Mural Jam and Censorship: Fighting for Freedom Of Expression In Barcelona – Part I

A Mural Jam and Censorship: Fighting for Freedom Of Expression In Barcelona – Part I

Freedom of expression is foundational in a democracy. Without it, it is not difficult for a culture to descend into authoritarianism, fascism, and dictatorship. By many standards, Spain’s democracy is still young, with a Parliamentary Monarchy since 1978. So it is curious and alarming to hear that this EU country has been silencing free speech in the last few years.

Sigrid Amores, Tres Voltes Rebel, Arte Porvo, Elna Or. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)

In 2018, we reported here on an initiative undertaken by more than two dozen artists from Spain called #nocallarem, a visual and musical protest inside a former prison to speak out against the Spanish Supreme Court ruling against the rights of an artist, a rapper, Pablo Hasel. In lyrics about the then-King Juan Carlos De Borbon deemed offensive, the young musician violated recently passed laws forbidding such speech.

Sigrid Amores, Tres Voltes Rebel, Arte Porvo, Elna Or. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)

Now, on the occasion of Mr. Hasel preparing to report to the authorities to begin serving his prison sentence, an outdoor art exhibition this month at Parque de las Tres Chimeneas (Three Chimneys Park) in Barcelona, a collection of artists gathered to paint works addressing what they see as an unjust attack on the freedom of a citizen and artist to express opinions in lyrics and writings. As you might expect at a graffiti/mural jam it was a celebratory Saturday of painting, music, dogs, kids, and the occasional soccer (fútbol) scrimmage.

Sigrid Amores, Tres Voltes Rebel, Arte Porvo, Elna Or. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)

But as soon as the mural paintings were up, the trouble began as well, according to artists and free-speech activists on the scene. “Less than twenty-four hours after doing their artistic actions, an NCNeta brigade escorted by a Barcelona Urban Guard van censored one of the works, covering it fully with paint,” says journalist and activist Audrey García in a Facebook posting.

The mural by artist Roc Blackblock featured the former king surrounded by words the rapper had used to describe him, including thief. Aside from being insulting to a public figure and calling out the rapper’s case, it is difficult for locals to understand why it was buffed.

Roc Blackblock. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)

García and others contend that the brazen act was evidence of an increasing level of silencing that targets some members of society for their speech but not others. “The city administration carried out a new act of censorship about our works, making our protest and denouncement of freedom of expression even more evident and necessary, adding a new case to the already too long, outrageous and constant violation of our rights and freedoms as creators and consequently of all society,” she says.

Cinta Vidal. Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Cinta Vidal. Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)

Eventually, the city apologized and offered solutions for restoring the piece, but the movement to free Mr. Hasel and protect free expression continues.  About 15 artists participated in the painting jam, including Roc Blackblock, Antón Seoane, El Rughi, Magia Trece, Doctor Toy, El Edu, Galleta María, Kader, Maga, Owen, Reskate, Chamo San, Sigrid Amores, Tres Voltes Rebel, Arte Porvo y Elna Or, among others.

Since then, more demonstrations have taken place in the streets of Barcelona, Valencia, Lérida, and Hasel’s hometown of Segrià to protest his imprisonment. According to the BBC, “More than 200 artists, including film director Pedro Almodóvar and Hollywood star Javier Bardem, have signed a petition against Hasel’s jail term, while Amnesty International described his arrest as terrible news for freedom of expression in Spain.”

Our special thanks to photographer Fer Alcalá for sharing his fine work with BSA readers here.

Cinta Vidal. Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Roc Blackblock. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Roc Blackblock. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Owen. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Anton Seoane, El Rughi, Magia Trece, Doctor Toy. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Anton Seoane, El Rughi, Magia Trece, Doctor Toy. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Anton Seoane, El Rughi, Magia Trece, Doctor Toy. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Maga. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Maga. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Anton Seoane, El Rughi, Magia Trece, Doctor Toy, Maga. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
El Edu. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
El Edu. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Galleta Maria. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Galleta Maria. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Kader. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Kader. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Reskate, Chamo San. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)
Reskate, Chamo San. Parque de las Tres Chimeneas. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Fer Alcalá)

See our other articles on this topic:

A Mural Jam and Censorship: Fighting for Freedom Of Expression In Barcelona – Part II

A Mural Jam and Censorship: Fighting for Freedom Of Expression In Barcelona – Part III

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Barcelona Small Scale Street Works Popping Up in the Face of Development

Barcelona Small Scale Street Works Popping Up in the Face of Development

Graffiti and street art are cyclical in many ways – reflective of society, urban planning, politics, current events, demographics… Currently the city of Barcelona is pushing hard on cleansing itself of the wild graffiti and street art that brought it so many tourists 15 years ago.

BL2A. Raval / Ciutat Vella, Barcelona. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)

With the pendulum of real estate development and gentrification swinging from aesthetic chaos to antiseptic order, street artists are changing tactics as well, opting for smaller pieces that are quickly and surreptitiously installed.

“The Raval / Ciutat Vella neighborhood used to have 4 or 5 ‘orchards,’” says photographer Lluis Olive-Bulbena, using a slang term to describe empty areas between blocks where freelance painters like to adorn abandoned walls. “Nowadays there are only one or two.”

BL2A. Raval / Ciutat Vella, Barcelona. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)

We’re pleased to introduce a number of artists specializing in smaller works; artists with names like BL2A, Karma, and Radical Playground. Each has their own style and each are part of a new wave using a smaller canvas, sometimes ingeniously; the sticker, the stencil, paste-ups, even ceramic – on the streets of Barcelona.

BL2A. Raval / Ciutat Vella, Barcelona. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
BL2A. Raval / Ciutat Vella, Barcelona. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
Karma Artist. Raval / Ciutat Vella, Barcelona. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
Radical Playground. Raval / Ciutat Vella, Barcelona. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
Radical Playground. Raval / Ciutat Vella, Barcelona. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
Radical Playground. Raval / Ciutat Vella, Barcelona. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
Demoiselle. Raval / Ciutat Vella, Barcelona. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
Hologat BCN. Raval / Ciutat Vella, Barcelona. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
Hologat BCN. Raval / Ciutat Vella, Barcelona. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
AKORE. Raval / Ciutat Vella, Barcelona. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
AKORE, BL2A and Tuike Souza. Raval / Ciutat Vella, Barcelona. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
Tiny Hands, Big Heart. Raval / Ciutat Vella, Barcelona. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
Tiny Hands, Big Heart. Raval / Ciutat Vella, Barcelona. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
Tiny Hands, Big Heart. Raval / Ciutat Vella, Barcelona. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
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Artists Commemorate International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women In Barcelona.

Artists Commemorate International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women In Barcelona.

News reports are telling a story about an uptick in domestic violence because families are confined in closed quarters for long periods of time during the COVID-19 lock-downs across the world. A tendency toward abusive behavior is further complicated by economic insecurity, lack of food, and generalized fear. There is help available, please see below for resources.

Nuria Farre Abejon. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)

Photographer and BSA contributor Lluis Olive Bulbena sends a dispatch from Barcelona’s Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies where a group of 13 artists were selected from 30 submissions to paint a graffiti jam to highlight the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Organized by @Wallspot.

Nuria Farre Abejon. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)

From the Healthline website:

Mental health support

If you or someone you know is in crisis and considering suicide or self-harm, please seek support:

Resources for finding a therapist

Maru Hrz. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Maru Hrz. International Day Against Women’s Violence. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)

Where to go for help

Gemma Fontanals. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)

Recover from Financial Abuse

“Unfortunately, financial abuse occurs in 99% of all domestic abuse cases, and the effects can negatively impact survivors for years after they escape,” says Nina Humphry at Bankrate. Below is an article that focuses on “rebuilding finances after escaping an abusive relationship, providing tips on budgeting, building credit, and getting back into the workforce.”

Here’s the link to the guide:

https://www.bankrate.com/personal-finance/rebuild-finances-after-financial-abuse/

Gemma Fontanals. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
La Castillo. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
La Castillo. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Ro Ledesma. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Ro Ledesma. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Marina Vallo. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Maria Gargo. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Maria Gargo and Marina Vallo. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Galleta Maria. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Galleta Maria. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Gemma Fontanals and Galleta Maria. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Garoine. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Ana Taratiel Ovni. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Ana Taratiel Ovni. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Elloise Gillow. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Elloise Gillow. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Nuria Toll.International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Nuria Toll. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona. November, 2020. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
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BIDEN Basks in Barcelona With TV Boy and Rocky V.

BIDEN Basks in Barcelona With TV Boy and Rocky V.

Art in the streets around the world has been signaling the beginning of a new US presidential era, even as Trump continues to deny it.

TV Boy. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)

Many, though not all, leaders from countries around the world have offered congratulations and words of praise and recognition to Joe Biden as the next president. In some cases artists have taken to the streets to express their support with their art – as in the case here by Barcelona-based TV Boy.

TV Boy. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)

The pose recalls the poster for the movie Rocky V, which may be the number of times Biden ran for president before he finally won. We’ll have to confirm with our fact-checkers.

TV Boy. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
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Juanjo Surace’s View on Trump and The USA: “It’s a Trap!”

Juanjo Surace’s View on Trump and The USA: “It’s a Trap!”

Political cartoons and murals sometimes overlap but rarely as impressively and with such frightening a warning as this new one from Juanjo Surace in Barcelona.

The skill and quality and powerful depiction all come together here from across the Atlantic Ocean, perhaps a clarion summation of how those outside the U.S. now see us and the current occupant of the White House.

Juanjo Surace. Plaza De Las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)

The artist is professionally a painter, sculptor, and animation professor. He says he is self taught and that his deepest love for his craft is expressed when spray it on the street.

All aerosol. Nine hours.

He says the new piece is entitled, “It’s a Trap!”

Juanjo Surace. Plaza De Las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
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3rd Edition of Kronos Inclusive and Looking to the Future of Art, Graffiti, Creativity, the Street in Barcelona

3rd Edition of Kronos Inclusive and Looking to the Future of Art, Graffiti, Creativity, the Street in Barcelona

We continue to see a dissolving of previous tensions between the worlds of graffiti writing and mural artists and other disciplines of art-making as we travel around cities around the world. Artificial divisions have persisted, and indeed the lived experience of graff and street art and mural making are distinctly different in certain respects, but the piece is the piece, regardless of style, and each creator can be an ambassador with a message.

Our own philosophy is if art is going to have the transformative power that we believe it can have on all of our societies, families, and institutions we need to dissolve artificial divisions in the creative community as well – as they serve little constructive purpose. As art in the street usually reflects society at large, we have our own challenges with classism, sexism, and racism as well.

So it’s great to see the continuance of brotherhood and sisterhood at small neighborhood festivals like the 3rd Edition of the Kronos Art and Arts Santa Mònica here in an area of Barcelona during the third week of October. One core philosophy at this festival this year was to re-consider the future of art and its role by actively consulting kids in defining what art is, and what it could be.

Juanjo Suarce. Kronos Festival. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)

“Be aware of the role of ARTIST and his work in our PRESENT, without judging, without imposing criteria, with the sole conviction that what we are creating is the prologue of the FUTURE in the ART”

During their ‘live painting’ events at 3 Chimney Plaza (Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies) it was the men and women, graffiti writers and street artists – all working side by side. Part of a much larger group of events that included 70+ artists, photography, sculpture, performance, music, video art, cinema, talks, and workshops, these painters just did their thing and had a good time.

“Becoming cultural activists, taking the reins of how to express ourselves and about what to express ourselves through art; and by doing so becoming key pieces for the freedom of creation, we become aware as spectators, as thinkers, as artists, as a species. KRONOS ART BCN 2020 is a wager to the freedom of society through the freedom of the artist; free to catch everything that interests and surrounds them, without fear of being judged and without judging the protagonists of their artwork. Free to BE in all the aspects that make us human, thus turning the PRESENT into the prologue of a FUTURE world full of diversity.”

Our thanks to photographer Lluis Olive Bulbena for capturing a few of the artists at work at the plaza.

Magda Cwik. Kronos Festival. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Magda Cwik. Kronos Festival. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Magda Cwik. Kronos Festival. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Seno. Kronos Festival. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Seno. Kronos Festival. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
CHAN. Kronos Festival. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
CHAN. Kronos Festival. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Bubbles – Keruna. Kronos Festival. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Bubbles – Keruna. Kronos Festival. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Mega – Keruna. Kronos Festival. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
SOEM. Kronos Festival. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
SOEM. Kronos Festival. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Ives One. Kronos Festival. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Ives One. Kronos Festival. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
Ives One – Seno. Kronos Festival. Plaza de las 3 Xemeneies, Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive Bulbena)
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