ARCOmadrid 2024: a Latin-Centric Art Universe Unveils the Caribbean

ARCOmadrid, now in its 43rd edition, has once again welcomed art enthusiasts from around the world. This prestigious fair has solidified its position as Europe’s most visited, surpassing even the esteemed Ivy League of European fairs in terms of collector and visitor turnout. As the preview morning unfolds, both pavilions 7 and 8 of the Ifema Centre are teeming with hundreds of Spanish and South American collectors and professionals.

Entering ARCO is akin to traversing a vast and captivating universe of art. With over 205 exhibitors predominantly from Spain, Portugal, and Latin America, the fair exudes a distinctly Latin-centric perspective. The diverse array of artworks on display is nothing short of extraordinary.

Each year, ARCO dedicates special focus to a particular territory, and in 2024, the spotlight illuminates the Caribbean. The exhibition titled “The space occupied by the shore, the tide, the current: an oceanic Caribbean in ARCOmadrid 2024” delves into the conceptual depths of this dynamic region. Curators Carla Acevedo-Yates and Sara Hermann meticulously selected artists and galleries to explore the intricate intersection between land and sea, inviting viewers to contemplate histories, memories, and identities in flux.

A standout artist featured in this year’s exhibition is Joiri Minaia, presented by Praise Shadows Art Gallery from Brookline, United States. Minaia, a Dominican artist, amalgamates elements of pop culture with social commentary, exemplified in her dense piece where she recreates the gesture of making waves using her hair immersed in black water. Her work resonates profoundly with the Caribbean experience, juxtaposing it with stereotypical imagery often associated with the region.

Among the galleries that commanded attention was Peter Kilchmann’s selection, featuring Leiko Ikemura, born in 1951, who showcases a renovated interest, and Adriu Deplazes, a swiss painter based in Marseille presenting charming works, often formally built through the visual lens of a walking man. Notable mentions include the impactful Elmgreen and Dragset tennis court “short story” and the compelling storytelling by Gregorio of Helga de Alvear. The presence of Antoni Tapiès, celebrated for his centenary, was palpable throughout the fair along with works like Angela de la Cruz’s ones strengthening admiration.

Personal favorites included Maisterravalbuena’s showcase of Jerònimo Elespe’s exquisite works, each piece a testament to artistic excellence and of course some incredible Tapies at Galerie Lelong where I got the chance to witness the sale of one of my favorite for just a bite less than 1 million. Priced at 55k, Kelly Beeman’s big painting at Perrotin reflects a distinctive style that merges elements of character delineation with a departure from extravagant designer fashion with a touch of vintage. Another on the rise artist is Galina Munroe at Rafael Pérez Hernando Gallery. A British-French artist, Munroe’s practice researches deep into femminine characters and new way to represent them.

To sum it up