Opera Gallery Madrid is proud to present Todo está dicho, a landmark exhibition that brings together some of the most influential figures in Spanish art from the 20th century to the present. Featuring major names such as Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, Esteban Vicente, José Guerrero, Pablo Palazuelo, Antoni Tàpies, Fernando Zóbel, Eduardo Chillida, Juan Genovés, Antonio Saura, Luis Gordillo, Rafael Canogar, Elena Asins, Equipo Crónica, Manolo Valdés, Cristóbal Hara, Jaume Plensa, Cristina Iglesias, and Miquel Barceló, this collective show explores the continuous reinvention that has defined Spanish artistic expression over the last century.

The exhibition takes its title from a reflection by André Gide: “Everything has been said, but since no one listens, it is necessary to constantly start all over again”. This idea resonates profoundly with the evolution of Spanish art, where artists have persistently sought renewal, challenged conventions, and redefined creative language.

A century of reinvention

Spanish art in the 20th century was shaped by a relentless desire for artistic freedom. At the turn of the century, Spain’s most pioneering artists looked beyond their national borders, with Pablo Picasso leading the way in Paris. His groundbreaking vision set the stage for future generations, inspiring figures like Joan Miró, who sought to “assassinate painting” and develop a unique visual language rooted in Surrealism.

The historical avant-garde movements of the early 20th century, from Ultraism to the Sociedad de Artistas Ibéricos, propelled Spain into modernity. However, the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939) and the subsequent dictatorship disrupted this momentum, forcing many artists into exile or creative isolation. Despite this, a new generation emerged, determined to push boundaries. Groups such as Dau al Set in Barcelona and El Paso in Madrid introduced abstraction as a means of artistic resistance, while collectives like Equipo Crónica used figuration to deliver sharp political and social commentary.

During this period, artists like Antoni Tàpies developed material-based abstraction, exploring texture and gesture as expressive tools. Meanwhile, Antonio Saura blended gestural expressionism with historical symbolism, and Rafael Canogar moved between figuration and abstraction, documenting Spain’s transformation. Juan Genovés, with works like El abrazo (The embrace), powerfully captured the nation’s transition to democracy.

From dictatorship to democracy: a new wave of creativity

The death of Franco in 1975 ushered in a new era of artistic freedom. The countercultural movement la movida madrileña transformed Madrid into a vibrant creative hub, where artists explored new forms of expression. The establishment of the Ministry of Culture helped cement Spain’s place in the global art world. Retrospective exhibitions of Picasso, Dalí, and Miró reaffirmed the country’s artistic legacy while paving the way for a new generation.

Artists like Fernando Zóbel, Eduardo Chillida, and Pablo Palazuelo redefined abstraction, experimenting with spatial relationships, materiality, and geometric compositions. Others, such as Luis Gordillo, introduced a fresh perspective on figuration and conceptual art. The late 20th century also saw the rise of Elena Asins, a pioneering figure in geometric and digital art.

Contemporary perspectives: pushing boundaries

The turn of the 21st century brought further evolution, with artists embracing new technologies, materials, and interdisciplinary approaches. Jaume Plensa became known for his monumental sculptures exploring human fragility and communication. Cristina Iglesias redefined sculpture, merging space, architecture, and geology in immersive installations. Meanwhile, Miquel Barceló, with his deeply textural and expressive works, continued to push the boundaries of painting and ceramics.

As we look at the vast contributions of Spanish artists over the last century, one thing remains clear: the spirit of reinvention is intrinsic to their work. Whether through the radical innovations of Picasso and Miró, the resilience of post-war abstractionists, or the conceptual and multimedia experiments of today’s creators, Spanish art has continuously reinvented itself.

Todo está dicho is a testament to the enduring vitality of Spanish creativity. As Gide suggested, even when everything has been said, artists must always begin again. This exhibition celebrates that eternal cycle of transformation, showcasing a century of artistic evolution that remains as dynamic and influential as ever.