La Peregrina Pearl. Fernando Sánchez Castillo

The artist from Madrid, Fernando Sánchez Castillo, will be presenting an exhibition at Velázquez Palace from 24 June to 8 March 2027, which is named after the famous jewel whose history condenses a close relationship between uniqueness, value and authority. In this project, the artist’s work reflects on the idea that art does not eliminate trauma or dissolve it into tradition, but rather isolates, transforms and returns it in an unexpected and unique way, just like pearls are the result of the transformation of an intrusion into something unique and beautiful. Sánchez Castillo’s work, mainly sculptures, acts on the ways in which power is represented, dismantling its symbols and unveiling the fragility of the narratives that uphold it. His work and his installation in this exhibition serve as a critical device that acts upon the imaginaries through which power builds its authority, inviting visitors to question the reasons behind order and contradictions. The artist works with the remains of the story, based on the modification of materials, scales and uses that subvert the relationship with them and bring about new layers of meaning. A monumental sculpture becomes a swing; some robots become tools for abstraction; two anti-riot vehicles perform a pas de deux dance. By altering their original purposes, these pieces question accepted forms of normality and reveal how far many expressions of authority, obedience and representation are natural. At the same time, they enter into dialogue with key moments in the history of art, from the Baroque period to the avant-garde, minimalism and conceptual art. Image Credit: Fernando Sánchez Castillo, City without heroes: Bolivar, 2001. Artist’s studio. Photography: Fátima Sanz