Santander, Spain – Actor and playwright Alberto Iglesias will be at the Museo de Arte de Santander (MAS) this evening for a discussion centered around the abstract work of Andalusian artist Guillermo Vargas Ruiz. The event, part of the “Alucinaciones” cycle organized by the Asociación de amigos del MAS, promises an exploration of how viewers bring their own interpretations and imaginations to art. This intersection of artist intention and audience perception is at the heart of Iglesias’s approach, and a key element of the ongoing cultural programming at the MAS.
Iglesias, a Santander native who now resides in Madrid, believes that art serves as a catalyst for self-discovery. He posits that a work like Vargas Ruiz’s “Pintura” isn’t simply *seen*, but actively completed by the observer. “The work is always an excuse to delve into our own imaginary,” he’s stated, framing the artistic experience as a dialogue between differing perspectives. This concept of reciprocal vision – where the artwork and the viewer mutually influence each other – will be a central theme of tonight’s conversation, beginning at 6:30 PM local time.
From La Machina to Madrid: A Career Built on Collaboration
Iglesias’s own artistic journey began in 1993 with La Machina Teatro in Santander. He honed his skills through collaborative work before relocating to Madrid in 2002 to further his training, and career. His education has been shaped by a diverse range of influential figures, including Bruce Myers, Claudia Contin, Helena Pimenta, Mario Gas, Claudio Tolcachir, Juan Mayorga, and Alfredo Sanzol. This breadth of mentorship reflects a commitment to a multifaceted approach to performance and creation.
Over the past three decades, Iglesias has amassed a substantial body of work as both an actor and a playwright. He’s participated in over forty theatrical productions, spanning both classic and contemporary pieces. His talent as a writer was first recognized in 1998 when he won the I Premio de Teatro ‘Ricardo López Aranda’, and his plays have since been published and staged across Spain. He’s also ventured into dance, collaborating with Armar Teatro on the flamenco spectacle ‘Mujeres de sangre y aire’ in 2005, demonstrating a willingness to explore different artistic mediums.
Exploring Abstract Art and the Viewer’s Role
The “Alucinaciones” cycle at the MAS aims to foster a deeper engagement with contemporary art by inviting artists from various disciplines to respond to specific pieces in the museum’s collection. Tonight’s focus on Guillermo Vargas Ruiz’s “Pintura” is particularly intriguing given the inherently subjective nature of abstract art. Vargas Ruiz, born in Úbeda, Jaén, is known for his large-format abstract paintings that explore color, texture, and form. His website showcases a range of his work, offering a glimpse into the visual language that Iglesias will be interpreting.
The MAS emphasizes that the goal isn’t to arrive at a single “correct” interpretation of the artwork, but rather to acknowledge the multiplicity of perspectives that each viewer brings to the experience. As the museum states, “looking is always interpreting and, in most cases, completing,” highlighting the active role of the audience in constructing meaning.
A Family-Friendly Focus: “El museo suena” Workshop
Beyond tonight’s discussion with Alberto Iglesias, the MAS continues to expand its educational offerings for families. On Saturday, February 28th, the museum will host “El museo suena” (The Museum Sounds), a workshop designed for children aged six and up. The workshop, scheduled from 11:00 AM to 12:30 AM, encourages participants to explore the museum through sound, utilizing melodies, harmonies, and percussion as tools for expression. The activity is free, but requires prior registration.
Coordinated by Adrián Alonso, “El museo suena” builds on the MAS’s commitment to creating an inclusive and accessible space for all ages. The Santander City Council supports this initiative, recognizing the museum’s role in fostering community engagement and providing unique cultural experiences. The workshop aims to help children connect with art on a sensory level, blending music and creativity to unlock new ways of understanding the museum’s collection.
Expanding Access to Art in Santander
The MAS’s programming reflects a broader trend in museums worldwide towards increased accessibility and audience participation. By offering events like the discussion with Alberto Iglesias and the “El museo suena” workshop, the museum is actively working to break down traditional barriers to art appreciation and cultivate a more vibrant cultural landscape in Santander. The emphasis on dialogue and interpretation encourages visitors to become active participants in the artistic process, rather than passive observers.
The museum’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond its programming. The Ayuntamiento de Santander, the city council, has consistently championed the MAS as a space “open, inclusive and oriented to the participation of neighbors of all ages.” This dedication to community engagement is evident in the diverse range of events and activities offered throughout the year.
Looking ahead, the MAS will continue to host events and workshops designed to engage audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Further details on upcoming programming can be found on the MAS website. The museum’s ongoing efforts to foster a dynamic and inclusive cultural environment promise to enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike.
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