Coderch & Malavia is a sculpture project founded by Joan Coderch and Javier Malavia in 2015, centered around the idealized human figure and guided by the principle of Beauty. Both artists, with backgrounds in fine arts, collaborate closely in crafting their sculptures, imbuing them with social commitment and environmental consciousness.
Their work has garnered significant recognition, including the Reina SofÃa Prize for Painting and Sculpture in 2017 and the First Prize in the 14th edition of the ARC International Salon Competition in 2019. Exhibited globally, their art is featured in private collections across Europe, Asia, and America, and they've showcased in prestigious venues like the Galerie Mokum in Amsterdam and the Urban Nation Biennial in Berlin.
In a world often marred by turmoil and discord, art emerges as a powerful medium for expressing societal concerns and advocating for change.
Among the many artists who channel their creativity towards addressing pressing issues, Coderch & Malavia stand out with their thought-provoking bronze sculptures. Let's delve into two of their remarkable creations and explore the profound messages they convey.
Walking in Beauty Sculpture:
Named after the Navajo term for the spiritual journey of embracing the sacredness of life, the "Walking in Beauty" sculpture captures the essence of harmony and interconnectedness with all living beings. It beckons viewers to contemplate the beauty inherent in existence and to walk through life with reverence and authenticity.
At first glance, the sculpture exudes a sense of serenity and grace. This portrayal encourages us to reconsider our own ways of moving through the world—urging us to transcend feelings of victimhood or judgment and embrace curiosity and truth-seeking instead. Through the symbolism of a Phoenix tattoo, representing hope, resilience, and regeneration, and a mandala tattoo, symbolizing the unity and infinite interconnectedness of the universe, Coderch & Malavia invite us to reflect on the profound interconnectedness of all things.
Giant of Salt Sculpture:
In the "Giant of Salt" sculpture, Coderch & Malavia pay homage to the Japanese Butoh dance—an art form born out of the ashes of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Butoh, also known as "the dance of darkness," emerged as a visceral response to the horrors witnessed during this dark chapter in history. Through the raw and emotive movements of Butoh, dancers sought to convey the anguish and resilience of the human spirit in the face of profound suffering.
By immortalizing the spirit of Butoh in bronze, Coderch & Malavia prompt us to reflect on our own triumphs in the face of adversity. The sculpture serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for renewal and transformation even in the darkest of times.
Art as a Catalyst for Social Change:
Through their sculptures, Coderch & Malavia underscore the transformative power of art in addressing societal issues and fostering positive change. Their works serve as catalysts for dialogue and reflection, inviting viewers to confront pressing issues such as peace, resilience, and the human experience.
In a world marred by violence and discord, the artists advocate for a paradigm shift towards non-violence—a concept that extends beyond the mere absence of conflict to encompass a proactive commitment to peace, security, and progress for all humanity. They challenge us to embody authenticity and integrity in our actions, recognizing the profound impact we can have on shaping a more compassionate and harmonious world.
In conclusion, Coderch & Malavia's bronze sculptures serve as powerful reminders of the transformative potential of art in addressing pressing social issues. Through their evocative imagery and thought-provoking symbolism, they inspire us to reevaluate our perspectives, cultivate empathy, and strive for a more just and compassionate world. As we engage with their art, may we heed the call to action and work towards a future where beauty, resilience, and peace prevail.