Artists in the wall
A hidden gem; the artists and collections of Ses Voltes, Palma
The vaults within the medieval wall in front of the Cathedral once stored the city's armaments. Nowadays however, you're more likely to find artists at work.
You'd miss it if you didn't know, but head down Passeig Dalt Murada and you'll discover the headquarters of Ses Voltes, a centre for Art and Creativity. Over the last two years, the centre as been awarding artists from around the world a studio space within the wall. At the end of their time there, the artists open up their studios and the public is invited in to view their work.
Last night, I was lucky to stumble across this creative space. There was very little coverage of the event despite the spectacular location. The studios open up onto a tranquil square of palm trees, with the Cathedral towering above. There were four studios and five artists displaying their work. I spoke to German artist, Nando Bruncke, who has been living in Mallorca for four years now and fell in love with painting as a little boy. The project was open to artists from all walks of life, and the centre has been particularly encouraging of young creatives who wouldn't normally be able to afford such a wonderful base.
For being so diligent, Nando was awarded a second month in the wall. He showed me his eye-catching collection of contemporary work, which included large resin coated collages. His passion is collecting old posters, which he'll spot wherever he travels. "The older and dirtier the better," he said. He'll piece together the different fragments, sometimes incorporating objects, and add his signature splash of colour. As the transparent resin hardens, the picture develops a new depth. With names such as a Bella Italia and Sunshine Over Cuba, his work transport the viewer on a journey. The closer you look, the more you find.
Surreal photo montages and manga style paintings were among the other styles on display last night. Next month new artists will be arriving with their own vision. If you happen to be near the Parque de La Mar, it's worth strolling along the water's edge down the sloped path of Passeig Dalt Murada. You never know what you might find. You might just be inspired.
..
For more from Emily, visit her blog.
