Las Meninas 2 Painting

Antonio Ismael Loperena Garro, known in the art world as Ismael Loperena, was born on July 11, 1954, in the picturesque town of Arguedas, Navarra, Spain. He is the son of the renowned Navarrese sculptor Antonio Loperena, and his life has been an extraordinary voyage through the realms of creativity and self-discovery. From the earliest beats of his heart, Ismael was immersed in the world of art, thanks to the influence of his father's sculptures and paintings. However, it wasn't until 1979 that his true calling became evident when he embarked on a journey to study Fine Arts at the University of Bilbao. Ismael's life story is a tapestry woven with threads of travel and continuous movement. He traversed the globe, leaving his artistic mark on countries and cities around the world, including France, Australia, Venezuela, Portugal, Belgium, Alicante, and even the bustling streets of New York. His experiences in these diverse places enriched his artistic perspective, shaping his unique style that seamlessly oscillates between traditional figurative art and avant-garde aesthetics. A pivotal chapter in Ismael's artistic odyssey unfolded in Venezuela, where he resided from 1983 to 1985. It was in this vibrant South American country that he honed his skills as a painter, experiencing both the joys of artistic expression and the trials of life. Despite economic challenges, his connection with the Venezuelan high society, especially with Helena Mosquera, opened doors to remarkable opportunities. Notably, he created a monumental mural, measuring over three meters in length, for the prestigious Sheraton Hotel in Caracas. Ismael's creative journey led him to Alicante between 1985 and 1988, where he lived a bohemian and free-spirited life. However, a life-threatening bout of peritonitis in 1987 forced him to reevaluate his priorities and embark on a new phase of life. Returning to Navarra in 1989, Ismael settled in Tudela, and later in Fontellas in 2003. These last two decades have seen him flourish as an artist. He has participated in numerous exhibitions, leaving an indelible mark on the art and culture scene of the Ribera de Navarra. His creative output is prolific and diverse, reflecting his ever-evolving perspective on life and art. Ismael Loperena's art is a reflection of his profound and complex thinking. Conversations with him reveal a deep passion for art, life, love, and death.