Guided Visits to Fundación MAPFRE: 31 Women and The Legacy of Impressionism exhibitions

The IE School of Humanities, in collaboration with the IE Arts & Business Club organized a guided visits to Fundación MAPFRE that invited students to discover two remarkable exhibitions: 31 Women by Peggy Guggenheim and the Twilight of Impressionism by Paul Durand-Ruel. The visits offered a chance to reflect on key figures, including both artists and their supporters, who played a significant role in shaping modern art through their bold and distinctive choices.

The initial exhibition focused on Peggy Guggenheim's 1943 presentation, "Exhibition by 31 Women." This show was noteworthy as one of the earliest in the United States that highlighted only women artists. The exhibition showcased the works of influential artists, including Frida Kahlo, Leonora Carrington, and Dorothea Tanning, who defied the artistic conventions of their time.

The second exhibition focused on Paul Durand-Ruel, a key art dealer recognized for his substantial backing of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artists. It featured artworks by Henry Moret and Maxime Maufra, encouraging visitors to consider how Durand-Ruel's support influenced public views on an art movement that had encountered significant resistance in the past.

The visits provided an opportunity for in-depth conversations regarding innovation and resistance in the realm of art. They focused on individuals who have significantly impacted the direction of art, either through their creative work or their support. This experience was beneficial for students interested in exploring art history and the larger cultural and social influences that shape it.