t Glorieta de Bécquer arbour (1911), a tribute to the poet
With its intense light, diverse landscapes and vibrant traditions, Andalucía has inspired countless artists over the centuries, from Diego Velázquez to Pablo Picasso. Yes, there are plenty of glittering galleries, but there are also more off-beat ways to experience the region’s art and crafts scene.
t Glorieta de Bécquer arbour (1911), a tribute to the poet
From sombre religious icons to gravity-defying graffiti, you’ll find it all in Andalucia’s public spaces. Check out the Romantic statuary in Seville’s Glorieta de Bécquer arbour. Málaga is known for its funky street art. Seek out OBEY’s 25-m- (80-ft-) tall Paz y Libertad mural (2013).
Known as the Siglo de Oro (Golden Century), the 1600s saw groundbreaking artists, known as the Seville School, operating in the city. The Museo de Bellas Artes houses an extraordinary collection of their works. For the best experience, visit on a Sunday morning when an art market is held in the square and the old and new Seville School sit side by side.
Andalucía’s art scene had a second “golden age” in the 20th century, with artists such as Pablo Picasso on the scene. The Museo Casa Natal de Picasso explores the artist’s early life, while the Museo Picasso Málaga shows his transition from Realism to Cubism. If you love contemporary art, make for the Centre Pompidou nearby.
Andalucía is renowned for its ceramics and Triana is a potter’s paradise. The Centro Cerámica Triana displays ceramics dating back to the Moorish occupation. Looking for the perfect souvenir? Why not pick up something from Ceramica Ruíz (www.ceramicaruiz.es) or, better yet, paint your own ceramic tile at Barro Azul.
Arts and crafts markets pop up every day throughout the region, from Córdoba to Cádiz. You’ll find paintings, pottery and everything in between at the Mercado Paseo de Arte, held on weekends in Triana. We Love Granada Market erects stalls along Paseo de las Tristes once a month.
Insider Tip
Why not try your hand at creating your own masterpiece on a painting holiday? Paint Andalucía (paint-andalucia.com) in the little village of Torrox will show you the ropes.
DISCOVER Seville and Andalucía Your Way
Diego Velázquez (1599–1660)
Considered the star of 17th-century painting.
Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (1617–1682)
Master of the Spanish Baroque, Murillo is renowned for his religious artwork.
Luisa Roldan (1652–1706)
“La Roldana” is Spain’s first documented female sculptor.
Pablo Picasso (1881–1973)
The most influential modern artist of the 20th century.