The eighth international watercolour biennial in Caudete concluded this past weekend, on 24 and 25 October, marking the end of its exhibitions and scheduled activities. This edition once again transformed Caudete into a meeting point for artists and art lovers.
On Saturday, 24 October, masterclasses led by Miguel San Pedro (Spain), Juan Carlos Zeballos (Peru-France), José Galarzo (Spain), and Iwasaki Nagi (Japan) attracted over 150 participants in each session. The artists shared their techniques and diverse approaches to watercolour, generating considerable interest and numerous questions from attendees. Unfortunately, Amanda Lapierre (France) was unable to conduct her masterclass due to the cancellation of all flights from France. The biennial expressed sincere gratitude for her efforts to reach Caudete and hopes to welcome her soon.
On Sunday, the awards for the fifth competition of watercolour books or artist books were presented. Honourable mentions were awarded to Conchi Ororbia Liberal for “Alegoría pictórica – Corporeidad de la luz” and María Luz Avilés Monge for “Mariquitas”. The Medal of Honour was given to Eva Garea Traba for “Caos en Tinta”. The ceremony was attended by Caudete's mayor, José Miguel Mollá; the cultural councillor, Manuela González; the artistic director of the biennial, Antonio Requena Solera; and the curator of the competition, Társila Jiménez Peñarrubia.
The day continued with a collaborative activity focused on creating artist books, led by Társila Jiménez and Antonio Requena, in which attendees participated. Following this, the award-winning artists presented their works and shared insights into their creative processes. The event concluded with the performance “Primer Trazo” by Escénica Compañía Davinia Fillol and a performance by Serbian artist Dragana Pajkovic Dodig alongside Antonio Requena, captivating the audience and providing a poignant artistic farewell.
The official closing ceremony was conducted by the mayor, the cultural councillor, and members of the organisation, who expressed their gratitude for the participation of artists, collaborators, and the public. With the exhibitions now closed, the biennial bids farewell, leaving behind not just artworks and memories but also new experiences, connections, and shared emotions. As the theme of this edition reminds us, “Art leaves a mark.”
