Tirana Times
TIRANA, Jan. 19 – Maks Velo, one of the greatest living Albanian modern painters, is having a special exhibition displayed at the DidArt gallery in Tirana. In five cycles of different works, including drawings and oil paintings, Velo brings in Tirana some pieces of Spain which he visited for one month under a residency programme made possible by the Danish Valpariso based in Spain. In his 120 works, Velo portrays his experience in Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga and Granada in his Andalusia, Landscape, and Bull-fighting cycles of works also inspired by the birthplace of great painters such as Picasso, Dali and Gaudi.
Bullfighting, one of Spain’s most traditional fiestas, is what attracted Velo most. “I was inspired and still continue working on those topics, especially bullfighting, which impressed me most. It’s a confrontation, a fight but even love for nature, this is the gist of the bull,” said Velo.
“My works were well received because I worked a lot there,” said Velo who completed a record 120 works during his residency.
His exhibition will be open to the public until January 30.
A renowned painter and architect, Velo has shown his works in France, Poland, Greece, Italy, Tunis, Russia, Minneapolis, Boston and New York – and continues to create powerful and breathtaking art. An Albanian newspaper wrote: “Velo’s paintings are an analysis of mankind that convey philosophical messages and shocking subjects. Painting specialists note his work for its configuration of Balkan primitive-abstract signs.”
As an author, he denounced the dictatorship of the communist regime of Enver Hoxha, under which he was imprisoned. Today, he remains actively involved in Albanian culture with his artwork, articles and debates in the mass media.
Last December, Antoni Clavi, one of Spain’s most influential 20th century artists had his works displayed at the Arts Gallery in Tirana. Held in the frame of the Spanish cultural autumn, the exhibition remained open to the public until December 15 featuring 44 artworks.
