The Artist Who Immortalized the Duchess of Alba
Alberto Romero, a painter and sculptor from Toledo, has stood out in the Spanish art scene for his deep connection with the Duchess of Alba, Cayetana Fitz-James Stuart. Since 2010, Romero devoted himself to portraying the duchess, becoming the only artist authorized by the House of Alba to work with her image. His work, characterized by a mixed technique and a pop-art style, has been exhibited in several Spanish cities, paying tribute to one of the most iconic figures of Spanish aristocracy.
The relationship between Romero and the duchess began when the artist presented her with a portrait he had painted. Impressed by the piece, Cayetana granted him permission to create a series of works based on her image. This gesture marked the beginning of a collaboration that materialized in the traveling exhibition «Doña Cayetana, ¡va por usted!» («Doña Cayetana, this is for you!»), presented in cities such as Toledo, Madrid, Seville, and Ibiza.
The exhibition included 45 pieces created over three years, using materials such as wood, paper, polyester, and marble dust, which added unique textures and reliefs to the works. The exhibition was inaugurated in Madrid by Cayetano Martínez de Irujo, son of the duchess, and was attended by Cayetana herself, who was visibly moved as she toured the show alongside the artist. Romero also presented his work in Seville, at the Gran Meliá Colón Hotel, and in Ibiza, where he exhibited 35 pop-art-inspired paintings at the Chapter Hall of Vila’s City Hall.
After the duchess’s passing in 2014, Romero continued to honor her with new exhibitions. In 2015, he presented a show in Talavera de la Reina, inaugurated by the current Duke of Alba, Carlos Fitz-James Stuart, who praised the artist’s unique style and his ability to capture the essence of his mother.
Alberto Romero’s work not only pays tribute to the duchess, but also reflects a deep admiration and respect for her persona. Through his art, Romero has managed to immortalize Cayetana Fitz-James Stuart, offering the public an intimate and colorful vision of a woman who left an indelible mark on Spanish history and culture.
With an artistic career spanning more than 40 years, Romero has undertaken numerous exhibitions. In the past 20 years, nearly all of his projects have been dedicated to history: exhibitions centered on Queen Isabella the Catholic, monarchs, and great historical figures.
His sources of inspiration include renowned artists such as Lucio Muñoz, Tàpies, Manolo Valdés, and Paco Rojas—artists who, like him, place great emphasis on the use of material.
The themes in his work speak of sustainability, uniquely blending nature, humanity, and solidarity.
His technique stands out for the use of natural silks, reclaimed fabrics, plant-based papers, wood, recycled materials, algae, sawdust, ropes, threads… He brings these elements to life in every piece, imbuing each work with luminous colors and volume, which define his final creations and mark the unmistakable signature of his art.
Soon, we will witness his new and impressive sculptural work in Toledo. It promises to be a major event.
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