The Rafael Botí Contemporary Art Centre, operated by the Provincial Council of Córdoba, has launched the exhibition 'Flor Es. Flowers that contain flowers. Flowers that imitate flowers', which will run until 22 November. This exhibition is included in the 'Lecturas en Flor' initiative.
During the opening event, Gabriel Duque, the provincial delegate for Culture, remarked that the exhibition explores the relationship between live flowers and ceramics in their various artisanal forms. He stated, “We are facilitating a conversation that began centuries ago, seeking updates through the intersection of artisanal practices and contemporary art languages, within the context of Córdoba’s floral and ceramic traditions.”
Duque highlighted that the exhibition features six artists, including five who specialise in ceramics, and includes contributions from the Dionisio Ortiz Art School, which will present pieces forming an installation focused on both artistic ceramics and live flowers. He also mentioned that the exhibition is curated by Ignacio Collado and includes artists such as Aniana Heras, DelAmorYlaBelleza, Noemí Iglesias, Olivia Barroso, and Yukiko Kitahara, alongside Ramón Luque, who is known for his floral art.
Additionally, Duque announced plans to open the second floor of the centre soon, which will host an exhibition featuring the winning works from the La Rambla Ceramic Competition, further emphasising the region's strong ties to this art form.
Ignacio Collado, the exhibition curator, explained that 'Lecturas en Flor' is a programme that began in 2016, recognising the deep-rooted connection of Andalusia and Córdoba with floral culture, evident in various expressions. He noted that this initiative draws from popular traditions linked to floral culture in Andalusia, particularly the courtyards of Córdoba, to explore contemporary art languages and related artisanal practices.
Collado elaborated, “In this edition, we have specifically examined the ancient tradition of containing flowers, focusing on the relationship between live flowers and ceramics. Thus, 'Lecturas en Flor' does not originate from floral arrangements but from contemporary art languages and the desire to connect them with floral culture and artisanal practices.”