Rafael Durancamps

RAFAEL DURANCAMPS (Sabadell, 1891 - Barcelona, 1979).
"Bullfighting themes".
Mixed media on paper.
Signed and dedicated in the lower left corner.
Measurements: 24 x 31 cm; 44 x 52 cm (frame).

With a loose and sure stroke, the artist reduces the figures of the bull and the bullfighter to essential forms, managing to transmit movement, tension and rhythm with great economy of means. The repetition of the scenes recalls the character of study or direct sketching, where Durancamps explores gestures and positions typical of bullfighting.

Durancamps trained with Vila Cinca at the Escuela Industrial de Artes y Oficios in Sabadell and maintained a close relationship with Joaquín Mir, whose influence can be perceived in the colorfulness of his first stage. He made his debut in 1917 in the Layetanas Galleries in Barcelona and later studied the masters of the Prado Museum and traveled to Italy.

In 1921 he moved to Paris, where he lived for several years and exhibited at the Zak Gallery, encouraged by Picasso. After returning to Spain he settled in San Sebastian, maintaining a constant collaboration with the Sala Parés in Barcelona. He also exhibited in Madrid, Sabadell, Bilbao, Valencia, London and Philadelphia.