Joaquín Sorolla

Joaquín Sorolla is a Spanish Impressionist and Luminist painter, undisputed master of Mediterranean light whose work celebrates with virtuosity the life and sunny landscapes of Spain. Trained at the Academy of Valencia then in Rome, he develops a personal Impressionist technique characterized by rapid and spontaneous brushstrokes, a luminous palette dominated by brilliant whites and deep blues, and an exceptional ability to capture the fleeting effects of natural light on water, sand and bodies. His Valencian beach scenes - children playing in the waves, fishermen pulling their boats, women walking on the shore - radiate a joie de vivre and luminous sensuality that make him the inspired chronicler of the Mediterranean. Sought-after portraitist and painter of vast mural compositions for the Hispanic Society of America in New York illustrating Spanish regions and traditions, he achieves immense international success during his lifetime. His prolific work of more than 2200 paintings combines Impressionist technical virtuosity and deep attachment to Spanish culture and identity, embodying a luminous and optimistic Mediterranean Impressionism.