The opening event, hosted by journalist Antonio Marcelo, featured notable attendees, including Eva Reverte, the General Director of Competitiveness and Tourist Quality, along with various council members from Archena and Águilas, and the management of the Balneario. The exhibition highlights iconic local sites, such as the Noria de Archena and the Fuente del Patio de los Leones, alongside representations of the cucaña of Águilas and landscapes from Vera, Murcia, and Rojales.
Rabal, recognized as one of the most prominent flamenco painters of our time, pays homage to the art form by bringing two legendary figures, Paco de Lucía and Camarón de la Isla, into his exhibition. Their music celebrated water as the essence of life, further enriching the thematic depth of Rabal’s work.
Beyond local inspirations, “Aqua Fons Vitae” also addresses the impact of war on childhood, featuring a poignant piece inspired by the fountain dedicated to children in the former Soviet city of Stalingrad, now Volgograd. This artwork serves as a powerful reminder of the innocence lost in conflict.
Born in Águilas, Murcia, in 1988, Rabal holds a degree in Fine Arts from the Miguel Hernández University of Elche and a master’s degree in Secondary Education. His artistic journey includes numerous exhibitions, such as “La catedral del flamenco” in 2017 and “Metamorfosis” in 2015, showcasing his evolution as an artist.
Rabal’s accolades include the 1st Prize at the Caixaltea Painting Competition in 2010 and multiple awards in the “Águilas en tu pincel” rapid painting competition from 2010 to 2013. His contributions to the cultural landscape extend to designing posters for significant local events, including the Águilas Carnival and Holy Week.
With “Aqua Fons Vitae,” Pedro Juan Rabal invites viewers to explore the multifaceted relationship between water and life, celebrating its beauty and significance through his vibrant and evocative artwork. The exhibition is a testament to Rabal’s artistic vision and his deep connection to the natural world, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts and locals alike.
Photo credits: The photos are from the artist’s archive.