Earlier this year, art and viticulture converged in a remarkable exhibition by contemporary artist Lola Escámez titled “À Tona: Monstros e Vinhedos”. Held at Fórum Romeira in Alenquer, Portugal, the event celebrated the seventh anniversary of the International Cooperation Agreement between Alenquer, Portugal, and Benkovac, Croatia. This partnership was born out of a shared commitment to preserving and reviving rare grape varieties and fostering cross-cultural collaborations.
At the heart of the exhibition was Escámez’s groundbreaking use of wine as a pigment in her artwork. Drawing inspiration from Greek mythology, particularly Homer’s Odyssey, the collection wove a narrative centred around Ulysses’ encounter with the Cyclopes. Each piece resonated with the themes of transformation and the passage of time, as the wine-based pigments evolve subtly on canvas, mimicking the aging process of wine itself.
The works featured a mix of techniques, combining wine pigments derived from rare varietals such as Empatia Superior, Empatia Vital, and Posip & Vital with ink, saffron, and other natural elements. Highlights of the exhibition included “The Fury of Neptune”, depicting Poseidon’s wrath, and “Movimentos Nómadas”, a vibrant representation of the Cyclopes’ nomadic lifestyle. These intricate pieces celebrated not only the artistic process but also the deep historical and geological ties between wine and culture.
This event was not just an artistic showcase but also a cultural celebration, highlighting the shared viticultural heritage of Alenquer and Benkovac. The collaboration exemplified how art can transcend borders, merging tradition and innovation to create something truly extraordinary. While the exhibition concluded in July, its impact continues to ripple through the artistic and viticultural communities, leaving an indelible mark on both fields.
A Timeless Tribute to Creativity and Heritage
Lola Escámez’s “À Tona: Monstros e Vinhedos” remains a testament to the symbiosis of art, wine, and mythology. By reviving ancient techniques and breathing life into rare materials, she has not only honoured the traditions of Alenquer and Benkovac but also opened a new chapter in contemporary art. The exhibition reminds us of the enduring power of creativity to connect, inspire, and transcend.
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