Taiteilija
Syntynyt Sarinenen, Espanja
Lita Cabellut: The Soul of Color and Texture
Lita Cabellut (1961, Spain) is a Spanish artist who lives and works in The Hague, the Netherlands, where she has been acclaimed Artist of the Year 2021. Her work stands out for its monumental scale and distinctive palette style—a result of her obsession to provide her characters with a skin—and for its exploration of profound themes related to human psychology and social commentary. Cabellut’s artistic journey began in poverty, marked by street life and an early fascination with the masters of the Prado Museum, shaping her unique approach to painting and establishing her as one of Spain's most celebrated contemporary artists.
Early Life & Education: Born in Sarinena, Aragon, Lita Cabellut experienced childhood hardship living on the streets alongside other homeless children. She developed a remarkable resilience and independence, observing the world around her with keen eyes—a perspective that would later inform her artistic vision. At twelve years old she was adopted by a Catalan family who facilitated her access to education, allowing her to pursue her passion for art at Gerrit Rietveld Academy in Amsterdam (1982-1984).
Influences & Technique: Her formative years were profoundly impacted by the artistic legacy of Goya, Velázquez, Ribera and Rembrandt. These masters instilled in her a deep appreciation for expressive brushwork and tonal variation—techniques she would carry forward throughout her career. Cabellut’s distinctive style is characterized by large-scale canvases employing a technique that blends traditional fresco methods with modern media applications, resulting in textured surfaces imbued with emotional intensity.
Major Achievements & Artistic Series: Cabellut's artistic output has been marked by ambitious projects exploring complex ideas and confronting societal issues. Notable series include “Frida,” dedicated to Frida Kahlo’s life and experiences; “Coco,” celebrating Coco Chanel’s iconic style; “A Portrait of Human Knowledge,” featuring portraits of influential figures from the past century; and “The Black Tulip,” inspired by Dutch Golden Age art and exploring themes of power, justice and ignorance.
Recognition & Exhibitions: Her work has garnered international acclaim, appearing in museums across Europe and North America—including The Mauritshuis, Rijksmuseum, CSMVS, Museo Arte Contemporánea Sicilia, YUZ Museum and many others. She has been honored with Doctor Honoris Causa from the University of Barcelona (2024) and Artist of the Year in the Netherlands (2021), cementing her position as a pivotal figure in Spanish art history.
Legacy & Continuing Work: Lita Cabellut’s unwavering commitment to artistic exploration—combined with her extraordinary talent—continues to inspire artists worldwide. Her ongoing projects delve into themes of identity, culture and spirituality, demonstrating her enduring fascination with the human condition and solidifying her legacy as a visionary artist who transcends boundaries.
Important Note: Lita Cabellut’s paintings are included in the permanent collections of several museums around the world, showcasing her contribution to artistic heritage. Her exhibitions have spanned continents, attracting audiences eager to experience her powerful visual narratives and emotive palette.
Museo
Näytteillä paikassa Barcelona, Spain
A University’s Embrace of Art: Discovering UPF Art Track
Nestled within the vibrant heart of Barcelona, at the prestigious Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), lies a truly singular institution – UPF Art Track. More than simply a museum, it's an embodiment of the belief that artistic expression is inextricably linked to intellectual exploration and societal progress. Inaugurated in 2016 as part of the university’s 25th-anniversary celebrations, this remarkable space isn’t confined by traditional museum walls; instead, it thrives within a carefully curated selection of historic buildings, transforming them into dynamic hubs where art, architecture, and academia converge. The very essence of UPF Art Track is rooted in a profound desire to share the university's artistic heritage with the wider community, fostering a deeper appreciation for contemporary art and its transformative power.
The journey begins within the Dipòsit de les Aigües, a former water reservoir ingeniously reimagined as an exhibition space. This architectural marvel, conceived with the visionary input of Antoni Gaudí, immediately captivates visitors. The building’s hypostyle hall – a breathtaking forest of 100 soaring pillars supporting a labyrinthine network of arches – creates an atmosphere that is both profoundly historical and strikingly modern. It's a space designed to evoke contemplation, mirroring the complex interplay between past and present that defines UPF Art Track’s core mission. Adjacent to this architectural masterpiece resides Espai Tàpies, dedicated entirely to the profound work of Antoni Tàpies, one of Catalonia’s most celebrated artists. Here, visitors encounter his textured symbolism – paintings that seem to pulse with layered meaning and a deep connection to Catalan identity.
A Tapestry of Contemporary Voices
The collection itself is a testament to generosity and vision, boasting an impressive array of works by internationally acclaimed figures alongside emerging talents. You’ll be immediately drawn to the monumental sculptures of Jaume Plensa, whose pieces seem to breathe with life, inviting intimate contemplation. The canvases of Miquel Barceló explode with vibrant energy, while Eduardo Chillida's abstract forms challenge perception and invite deeper understanding. Beyond these cornerstones, a diverse selection of artists – Susana Solano, Roy Lichtenstein, Frederic Amat, Josep Guinovart, Albert Ràfols-Casamada, and Antonio Saura – contribute to the museum’s rich tapestry of contemporary artistic thought, each piece adding a unique thread to the narrative.
The selection isn't merely about showcasing individual masterpieces; it’s about creating a dialogue between artists and eras. The juxtaposition of Tàpies’ layered symbolism with Lichtenstein’s pop art references, for example, sparks intriguing conversations about artistic influence and cultural context. Furthermore, the inclusion of Catalan artists like Josep Guinovart and Albert Ràfols-Casamada ensures that the museum reflects the region's rich artistic tradition while simultaneously embracing a global perspective.
Architecture as Art: A Symbiotic Relationship
What truly distinguishes UPF Art Track is its seamless integration with university life. It’s not an isolated addition; it’s a vital component, fostering dialogue between students, faculty, and the broader community. The museum serves as a catalyst for interdisciplinary exploration, inspiring new perspectives and encouraging critical thinking. The very architecture of the campus – buildings like the Roger de Llúria building, once military barracks, now housing not only art but also spaces dedicated to democratic memory and intellectual exchange – reinforces this symbiotic relationship.
This blending of history, art, and academia creates an atmosphere that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. The museum’s presence on campus encourages a constant interaction between artistic creation and scholarly inquiry, enriching the educational experience for all who engage with it. The commitment to accessibility extends beyond physical access; UPF Art Track has embraced digital platforms, forging a partnership with Google Arts & Culture that allows art enthusiasts worldwide to explore its collections through virtual tours and online exhibitions.
A Legacy of Openness and Innovation
The story of UPF Art Track is one born from a desire to share and celebrate. The initiative arose from a vision to open the university’s artistic heritage to the public, transforming spaces previously reserved for academic pursuits into accessible cultural hubs. This spirit of openness extends beyond physical access; the museum has embraced digital platforms, forging a partnership with Google Arts & Culture that allows art enthusiasts worldwide to explore its collections through virtual tours and online exhibitions. The very inauguration on International Museum Day speaks volumes about the institution's ethos – a belief that art is not confined to hallowed halls but should be an integral part of everyday life, enriching both individual experience and collective consciousness.
UPF Art Track stands as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of art within an academic setting. It’s a place where history, creativity, and intellectual inquiry converge, offering visitors a truly unique and inspiring experience. A visit here is not merely a viewing of artworks; it's an immersion in a vibrant ecosystem of ideas, fostering a deeper appreciation for the power of artistic expression to shape our understanding of the world.
