This week, I had the privilege of attending Contemporania in Barcelona, an exclusive event celebrating the finest in contemporary craft and design. My invitation came personally from Paulo Ribeiro, the visionary behind this exceptional gathering and the mind responsible for curating its exclusive collection.
Contemporania is more than an exhibition — it’s a tribute to unique craftsmanship and the diversity of materials, a space where tradition meets innovation, and where every artist tells a story through texture, color, and form.
The Vision of Paulo Ribeiro
Paulo Ribeiro has an extraordinary talent for creating harmony between artists and their works. His eye for detail and ability to assemble collections that complement both the space and each other make Contemporania one of the most refined showcases of artistic excellence in Barcelona. The venue itself reflected this curatorial mastery — intimate yet sophisticated, allowing each piece to breathe and speak for itself.
Highlights of the Exhibition
Among the many remarkable artists on display, a few stood out to me for their creativity, depth, and technique. Some of them nominated by Voque.
Henar Iglesias – Arte Plumeria
Henar Iglesias captivated visitors with her collection of heads and wall art crafted from delicate feathers. Each piece was a study in patience and precision — a poetic exploration of texture, lightness, and movement. Her work felt alive, whispering stories of nature’s elegance and fragility.
Charlie Larouche-Potvin
A young, ambitious, and remarkably talented glassblower, Charlie Larouche-Potvin presented a collection that shimmered with light and color with a green glass base. His mastery of the medium is undeniable — from bold, sculptural pieces to intricate designs that seemed to hold breath within their translucent forms. His art bridges youthful energy and timeless craftsmanship.
Klara Pelissier
Klara Pelissier’s art, inspired by the tiny coral polyp, pulsated with color and life. Through her work, she reminded us of the beauty and vulnerability of our planet, transforming microscopic natural forms into monumental expressions of ecological awareness. Her pieces radiated both delicacy and strength — a visual metaphor for the world’s hidden wonders.
Thomas van Noten
Another rising star, Thomas van Noten, creates art from materials few people have ever encountered. His innovative approach and fearless experimentation have already earned him international recognition. Each of his works seems to push boundaries, reimagining what is possible when curiosity meets craftsmanship.
An Unforgettable Experience
Contemporania was a celebration of creativity, material diversity, and human imagination. From feather and glass to coral and unknown elements, every work reflected a deep connection between artist and material — a dialogue that Paulo Ribeiro curated to perfection. The story of these inspiring and successful artist makes this show a gem in the heart of Barcelona.
Walking through the exhibition, I was struck by how every piece — though distinct in origin and technique — contributed to a collective story about beauty, sustainability, and the enduring power of craft.
This visit was more than just an event — it was a journey through contemporary artistry, guided by one of the most discerning curators in the field. My heartfelt thanks to Paulo Ribeiro for the exclusive invitation and for creating a space where innovation and craftsmanship truly shine.
