Classical Art.

Joaquín Sorolla | Spain's Impressionist Genius Unveiled

Joaquín Sorolla (1863–1923) was a Spanish painter celebrated for his luminous and vibrant works that captured the essence of Mediterranean life. Born in Valencia, Sorolla demonstrated artistic talent early and trained at the Academy of San Carlos in his hometown before advancing his studies in Madrid and Rome. He gained international recognition at the Paris Universal Exposition of 1900 and the Hispanic Society of America exhibition in 1909, where his mastery of light and color mesmerized audiences. Known as the "master of light," Sorolla's paintings often depicted sun-drenched beaches, bustling harbors, and serene landscapes. His ability to portray light's play on water and skin was unparalleled, evoking a sense of immediacy and vitality in his art. In addition to landscapes, Sorolla excelled in portraits and social realism, addressing themes such as labor and poverty with empathy. His monumental project, *Vision of Spain*, a series of large-scale panels for the Hispanic Society, remains a testament to his love for Spanish culture and heritage. Sorolla's health declined after a stroke in 1920, and he passed away in Madrid in 1923. His legacy endures as one of Spain's most celebrated painters, whose works continue to captivate art lovers worldwide.