Chillida and Oteiza: Basque Avant-Garde Sculpture

The transformation of Basque sculpture in the 20th century In the mid-twentieth century, Basque sculpture underwent a profound transformation that placed it on the international art map. In this process of renewal and avant-garde, two figures emerged as indisputable references: Chillida (1924-2002) and Oteiza (1908-2003). Both broke with the figurative tradition and explored new ways of relating to space, matter and the viewer’s perception. Their work turned the Basque Country into a center of sculptural experimentation of worldwide projection. The Basque School: origin of the renovation The so-called Basque School was not a formal institution, but a movement of art