Urbano Lugrís

URBANO LUGRIS VADILLO (Vigo, 1942–2018).
“Seabed Landscape.”
Oil on panel.
Signed in the lower right corner.
Measurements: 50 x 39.5 cm; 61 x 50.5 cm (frame).

The son of fellow painter Urbano Lugrís González, this artist developed a style rooted in Surrealism, in which realistic rendering is combined with hallmarks of contrast and impossible perspectives to create new spaces. His works are characterized by meticulous drawing and extremely careful compositions, which reflect his skillful execution and precision, making his style entirely unmistakable. After entering the world of painting relatively late in life, he received his first awards in 1962, which encouraged him to continue in this field. It was in 1971 that he decided to devote himself solely and exclusively to painting, exhibiting in various galleries on the national and international scenes. Over time, his palette has evolved toward a more vibrant range rich in hues. Vadillo went through different phases throughout his artistic career; the first was characterized by extreme attention to detail and the miniature scale of his figures—elements that would resurface in his third phase, alongside the use of a bolder color palette. According to the artist himself, his painting is a craft—or, quite simply, a job. As previously mentioned, throughout his career he has participated in various group exhibitions and held solo shows; among the most recent of the latter, the one held in 2010 at the La Catedral gallery in Lugo stands out. His work has also been included in recent group exhibitions such as “Painting in Galicia: From the 17th Century to the Latest Trends,” held in Vigo in 2001, and “Painted Nature: The Landscape in the Provincial Council’s Collection,” organized by the Provincial Council of La Coruña in 2006. His work is currently represented in the María José Jove Foundation, among other collections.