Art Madrid'25 – THE ROAD TO THE SPIRITUALITY OF BILL VIOLA

We propose a tour of some desacralised churches in Cuenca to start a journey that invites to withdrawal and the search for spirituality through the work of Bill Viola. The Church of San Andrés, the Convent of Las Angélicas (now turned into the Cruz Novillo Art Center) and the Church of San Miguel, to which the Museum of Spanish Abstract Art and the Museum of Holy Week joint, are the spaces that host 16 pieces of this creator in love with video art.

Frames from “Fire Woman”, 2005 (left) and “Tristan’s Ascension”, 2005 (right)

Bill Viola has become today a reference in this discipline, not only for the innovation of his proposals, with which he found his way when video creation was still little exploited; but also because throughout his career a constant discursive line stands which becomes omnipresent and permeates every single piece in an unmistakable way. Today, part of his work is articulated in a "Mystic Way" distributed in these five spaces of the old town of Cuenca. This project, which involves a physical and temporary tour, becomes the perfect match between the places of exhibition, the old centres dedicated to worship and prayer, and the message of his works, which seem conceived for this installation.

“The Quintet of the Silent”, 2000

The search and representation of the spirituality in Viola's creations draw directly from Renaissance classicism and the Judeo-Christian tradition that has marked the history of European art since the Middle Ages. Many of his pieces emulate religious paintings that we can easily relate to our most immediate cultural heritage, both for its composition and for the use of colour and light. The author approaches his works as pictures in movement. The influence of pictorialism is clear, but the technical flair in the making and the exquisiteness of the finishes transports us to a point, suspended in time and space, which transcends everything seen so far.

“Water Martyr”, 2004

One of the star pieces of this exhibition is entitled "Tristan’s Ascension." In it, the artist wants to represent the ascent of the soul in space with a sequence in a blue tone that conveys peace and serenity. The atmosphere anticipates the climax, the enveloping sound of water abstracts us from the world, the blackness that surrounds the spectator leads his sight towards the artwork that, hypnotic, traps us to contemplate -not to observe- this process. Mysticism almost becomes material.

“Emergence”, 2002

This work delves into the relation of modern man with his spirituality, an aspect today largely abandoned and relegated to the purely personal sphere of the individual. However, our cultural heritage is very much concerned with religion, not only because of the importance of our heritage for the immense collections of works focused on these themes and the architectural treasures of the European churches and cathedrals; but also because this legacy is still present in the construction of our way of thinking (and even feeling) collectively, in our relationships with our fellowmen, the conception of good or evil, and the burden today called morality that determines to a large extent our behaviour. Above all, Bill Viola reflects with an addictive, raw work that invites, while doing self-criticism, to recover that banished part of the individual. A mystical route to walk through without haste, with the dedication that deserves to think of oneself as a being.

 

Art Madrid’25 presents One Shot Collectors, a program sponsored by One Shot Hotels that returns to the fair for the fifth consecutive edition with the mission of democratizing and promoting art collecting. Aimed at collectors, professionals in the sector, and new art lovers, the program seeks to bring the public closer to the works by offering an accessible approach supported by experts.

The program is led by Ana Suárez Gisbert, an art advisor with an outstanding track record in the art market. Her experience ranges from art valuation to personalized advisory services, helping participants find pieces that suit their tastes and budget. In addition, she combines her technical knowledge with a passion for sustainability, promoting responsible practices within the art market.


Art Madrid.19ª Edition. Galería de Cristal del Palacio de Cibeles. Courtesy image. Beatriz Maestre.


Art collecting is more than a hobby; it is a passion that goes beyond owning a piece. It involves an emotional, aesthetic, and personal journey that connects the collector with the history and creative process of the artist. A collection should evolve gradually, built over time and based on information aligned with our interests. The key is to enjoy the art, without feeling intimidated, and trusting in personal taste.

So, how do we decide what to focus on and where to direct our attention? Where do we start? How do we connect one purchase to the next? A good acquisition happens when we follow our personal tastes, learning to recognize what attracts and interests us, while staying informed before and during the process.


Professional advice from an expert is a safe and consistent way to make decisions. The collector not only seeks to enhance and maximize the quality and value of their collection but also to enrich the buying and enjoyment experience.


In the 20th edition of Art Madrid’25, a consulting space will be offered, led by Ana Suárez Gisbert, Art Advisor, a Law graduate, and a certified Art Appraiser with extensive experience in the art market. This service is designed for both experienced collectors and those looking for their first collectible piece, even for corporate collectors wishing to reflect their brand values through an art collection. The Art Madrid’25 collecting program adapts to different profiles, needs, and preferences, offering a personalized journey and guidance.


Our Art Advisor will find and prepare a selection of artworks based on the requirements and budget of each buyer, as well as assist in negotiating the acquisition.


Starting in art collecting can arise from a desire for knowledge and aesthetic, social, economic, or even business exploration.


At Art Madrid, we promote collecting for individuals and companies who wish to invest in patronage. This initiative is directed at a broad spectrum of profiles, for those who wish to start or continue their collection. Art Madrid offers a wide variety of works in areas such as photography, painting, sculpture, or installation, within a broad price range.


Whether you are an experienced collector, a beginner buyer, a curious enthusiast looking for your first piece, or a company interested in reflecting its values through art, the One Shot Collectors program offers a complete experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to find a work that meets all your expectations.


The advisory service is part of the One Shot Collectors, Collecting Program at Art Madrid’25 and is completely free for those who register in advance.

If you would like personalized advice, request more information via email at vip@art-madrid.com or sign up using the following form:


ABOUT ONE SHOT HOTELS. SPONSOR OF ART MADRID

One Shot Hotels is a boutique hotel chain that focuses on design, creativity, and prime locations in cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, San Sebastián, and Porto. Since its foundation in 2013, the brand has built a unique identity in which art, culture, and beauty are essential parts of the guest experience. Each of its hotels is designed to be much more than just accommodation: they are soulful spaces where aesthetics and artistic sensitivity are integrated into every detail.

In line with this commitment, One Shot Hotels returns as a sponsor of Art Madrid, reaffirming its support for artistic creation in all its forms. The chain sees art as a universal language that connects people and transforms spaces, and this philosophy is reflected in the design of its hotels, the selection of furniture, and the arrangement of its environments. Creativity and inspiration are experienced in every corner, offering guests an experience that goes beyond the conventional.

With an eye on the future, One Shot Hotels continues to grow and expand its presence in new destinations, while maintaining its commitment to art and culture. More than a decorative element, art is part of its essence and value proposition, creating spaces where each stay becomes an aesthetic and emotional experience.


ABOUT ANA SUÁREZ GISBERT. ART ADVISOR OF THE PROGRAM

Ana Suárez Gisbert holds a law degree from the Complutense University of Madrid, specializing in International Law and Foreign Trade of Art. She is an appraiser and judicial expert in art and antiques from Antonio de Nebrija University. She is a partner at the art appraisal firm Art Value Project.

She has carried out valuation work for important collections and insurance companies. For years, she has represented major international publications in the arts and design world, such as Frieze, Frieze Masters, and Gagosian, among others. Currently, she combines her work at the art appraisal firm with a project focused on art and sustainability for private companies and local governments.





Sponsor of ART MADRID'25

One Shot Hotels