HRH Princess Keisha Omilana visited the Iconic Hortensia Herrero Art Center In Valencia
In an exclusive interview with SAXS magazine owner HRH Princess Keisha Omilana at the Hortensia Herrero Art Center, Javier Molins, the creative force and Art Director behind the museum, shared the captivating tale of its inception. The journey began a decade ago when Javier met Hortensia Herrero in Dallas. Initially a collector of Sorolla and Valencian artists, Hortensia shared her dream of establishing a museum in Valencia. However, Javier proposed a unique twist by suggesting the inclusion of international artists to cater to the local community’s art preferences. This innovative idea struck a chord with Hortensia, ultimately leading to the birth of the Herrero Art Center.
Javier Molins, the creative force and Art Director behind the Hortensia Herrero Art center with HRH Princess Keisha Omilana
Collaborating closely over the years, Javier and Hortensia meticulously curated the museum’s collection while overseeing the meticulous restoration of a Valencia palace to house their vision. The restoration spanned five years and involved intricate discussions with architects to ensure the seamless integration of artworks within the space. Notably, six site-specific installations were commissioned, adding a distinctive touch to the Herrero Art Center’s ambiance and enriching the art-viewing experience.
Upon the completion of the project, Javier expressed a mix of relief and joy as visitors began to explore and appreciate the museum’s offerings. He emphasized the museum’s inclusive approach to art, aiming to captivate a diverse audience and evoke positive responses from all who visit. Javier underscored the seamless fusion of architecture and art within the museum, creating a dynamic contrast to conventional gallery spaces. The Hortensia Herrero Art Center stands as a beacon of historical significance, housing a contemporary art collection and unique installations that beckon art enthusiasts and culture seekers alike to Valencia for an unforgettable experience.
In his conversation with HRH Princess Keisha, Javier elaborated on the meticulous selection process for artists showcased in the gallery, emphasizing a strict criterion of quality and alignment with the collector’s refined taste. He shed light on the gallery’s focus on living contemporary artists, strategically showcasing individual talents or thematic exhibits across various rooms in the palace. Javier also revealed intriguing details about the center, including the discovery of the Roman Circus on the premises and an interactive team lab piece simulating a medieval Japanese village, designed to provoke contemplation on irreversible actions.
Discussing standout pieces from renowned exhibitions like the Tate Modern and Bilbao, Javier highlighted the importance of visitor interaction in shaping the artwork, particularly through engaging with their own shadows. He commended the impact of site-specific works, notably praising Mat Collishaw’s homage to Valencia’s Fallas festival, a source of inspiration he had never encountered before. Javier detailed Collishaw’s meticulous research and dedication in crafting pieces like the Roman Circus depiction, further emphasizing the strong bond between artists and the art center, with notable figures like Olafur Eliasson, Mat Collishaw, Sean Scully and Jaume Plensa expressing pride and ownership in having their work featured at the museum’s grand opening.
(L-R) HRH Princess Keisha Omilana, Owner of SAXS Magazine; Loreto De La Escallera; Javier Molins, the Art Director
HRH Princess Keisha Omilana, Owner of SAXS Magazine and Loreto De La Escallera
The Hortensia Herrero Art Center in the great city of Valencia stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and a shared passion for art. Javier Molins and Hortensia Herrero’s dedication to creating a space that transcends boundaries and embraces diversity has resulted in a museum that not only showcases world-class art but also invites visitors to engage, reflect, and be inspired. With its rich collection, unique installations, and commitment to fostering meaningful connections between artists and audiences, the Herrero Art Center has truly become a cultural gem in Valencia. As visitors continue to flock to this iconic institution, it is evident that the legacy of Javier Molins and Hortensia Herrero will endure, leaving an indelible mark on the art world for generations to come.
