ARTESANTANDER offers the chance to enjoy contemporary art alongside the beaches of Sandinero. Now in its 34th year, it welcomes more than 40 national and international galleries. In 2026, ARTESANTANDER presents a revamped and more accessible edition, with extended opening hours.

Victor Lope Arte Contemporáneo will present a selection of works by the artist Juan de la Rica (Bilbao, 1979), focusing on his most recent works on paper. Juan de la Rica’s works on paper reveal a less well-known facet of the painter; they emphasise his working process whilst allowing the viewer to appreciate the possibilities of drawing. In addition, two previously unseen oil paintings will be exhibited at the fair alongside works created in pastel.

It is worth noting that Juan de la Rica’s painting practice is rooted in drawing, from which figures emerge through the use of pastels and coloured pencils. His work is characterised by a palette of intense tones and light volumes that give form to serene figures and everyday objects.

In his works on paper, whether in pastel or pencil, Juan de la Rica’s line and intent become more direct and intense. In contrast, his oil paintings on canvas are dominated by a refined and assured technique that results in flat colours and clean compositions—characteristics stemming from his experience and the influence of pop artists such as Alex Katz and David Hockney.

Place:

Palacio de Exposiciones y Congresos de Santander

C/ Real Racing Club, 3. 39005 Santander

Open Hours:

Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 5.00 pm to 9.30 pm.

Sunday from 11.00 am to 6.30 pm.

Free entry