Agustin Casillas

AGUSTÍN CASILLAS (Salamanca, 1921 - 2016).
"Skateboard", 1978.
In bronze.
Signed and dated.
Measurements: 31 x 12 x 10 cm.

Agustín Casillas was one of the most important sculptors of contemporary sculpture in Spain and a key figure of public art in Salamanca. He was trained at the Escuela de San Eloy and the Escuela de Artes y Oficios of his city. From a young age he developed a solid training in drawing and sculpture, which allowed him to open his own workshop and begin a long artistic career.

His work is characterized by figurative sculpture in stone, bronze and concrete, with special attention to literary, historical and popular themes. Many of his sculptures represent characters from Spanish literature, such as El Lazarillo de Tormes, La Celestina or Miguel de Cervantes, integrated into the urban space.

Casillas is especially well known because his work is part of the landscape of Salamanca, where many of his sculptures are installed in streets, squares and parks, becoming an authentic "open-air museum". He was widely recognized with national awards and distinctions, and passed away in 2016 in his hometown.