Magda Bolumar Spanish, b. 1936

Magda Bolumar Chertró is a renowned Catalan visual artist associated with the avant-garde movements of the mid-20th century. She is celebrated for her innovative use of materials and her significant contributions to the development of contemporary art in Spain.

Bolumar’s artistic journey began in 1948, when she entered the studio of painter Rafael Estrany, a disciple of the Belgian artist James Ensor. She later continued her education at the School of Arts and Crafts in Mataró. In 1954, Bolumar made contact with key members of the Dau al Set group, a prominent Catalan avant-garde collective, and also met sculptor Moisés Villelia, a key figure in the Art Actual group. In 1958, Bolumar married Villelia, and together, they embarked on a collaborative exploration of primary materials in art, further enriching the intellectual and artistic landscape of their time.

Throughout her career, Bolumar has consistently pushed the boundaries of art, exploring new techniques and materials. In the 1960s, she gained particular recognition for her "Xarpelleres," innovative creations made from sackcloth that evoke a strong, personal, and poetic connection with nature. These works emphasize the material itself, showcasing Bolumar’s ability to highlight the intrinsic qualities of the fabric—strength, flexibility, and malleability—and use them to create a new cosmic vision rooted in the primal forces of creation.

In parallel to her work with the "Xarpelleres," Bolumar began creating intricate drawings, which she first presented to the public in a gallery exhibition. These works, like her fabric pieces, involved detailed preparatory work and once again centered on the material itself. Bolumar's innovative approach to drawing and her exploration of new techniques established her as a pioneering figure in the artistic world, continuously challenging the norms of the time.

Bolumar also collaborated with the magazine Inquietud Artística, where several of her works were published, helping to spread her artistic vision. Her work has been recognized not only for its technical innovation but also for its ability to evoke a deep emotional and philosophical connection to the natural world and the forces that shape creation.

As a female artist in the Francoist era, Bolumar's success and recognition set her apart from many of her contemporaries. Her ability to navigate and thrive in a male-dominated artistic world, while maintaining a strong and distinctive voice, has cemented her place as one of the most important figures in Catalan art.