The BritishSpanish Society was recently welcomed to Shapero Modern, a leading New Bond Street art gallery, for a private viewing of its standout exhibition, Joan Miró: Monumental Printmaking. The evening was a vibrant celebration of one of Spain’s most iconic and influential artists.

In the final decade of his life, Joan Miró (1893-1983) devoted himself primarily to the art of printmaking. It was during this time that he produced some of the most dynamic and ground-breaking works of his career. Shapero Modern’s exhibition showcases 13 monumental prints from this period, many of which are on a larger scale than anything Miró had previously created, highlighting the artist’s exceptional command of printmaking techniques and his imaginative artistic vision.

What makes this collection particularly fascinating is Miró’s innovative use of carborundum printing, a technique that allowed him to create richly textured, multi-layered compositions. The prints are vibrant, playful and visually striking, offering a compelling testament to Miró’s boundless creativity and technical brilliance.

During the event, guests were treated to an insightful talk by Senior Gallery Manager Helen Blake, who guided us through highlights of the exhibition. A particular favourite was Gargantua (1977), an extraordinary print inspired by François Rabelais’ 16th-century tales of giants. Dominated by broad, black forms, the image overwhelms the viewer with the enormity of its forms. The print’s dynamic composition, combined with Miró’s use of vibrant reds, blues, yellows, and greens, merges literary reference with artistic style to bring this legendary figure to life.

Following the talk, members of the BritishSpanish Society enjoyed drinks and conversation within the gallery, taking time to explore the artworks and appreciate the unique atmosphere created by Miró’s monumental prints. It was an evening of culture, connection, and shared appreciation for Spanish art and its enduring global influence.

Beyond the artworks on display, the evening also served as a tribute to Miró’s extraordinary life and enduring legacy. Born in 1893 in Barcelona, Miró lived through a turbulent personal and political landscape. He fled Barcelona during the Spanish Civil War and eventually settled in Mallorca, where, in 1956, he established the Sert Studio as a creative haven for his artistic pursuits.

Today, the studio is part of the Fundació Miró in Mallorca, alongside Son Boter, an 18th-century house he acquired in 1959, and the modern Moneo Building, designed by renowned architect Rafael Moneo. Together with the Fundació Miró in Barcelona, founded by Miró himself, these institutions play a key role in preserving and promoting his legacy while supporting contemporary art. They reflect not only the depth of Miró’s artistic achievements but also his commitment to cultural exchange and education. 

For those yet to visit Shapero Modern, their exhibition Joan Miró: Monumental runs until the 4th of May 2025. We highly recommend it – not only as a celebration of Miró’s artistic brilliance, but also as a rare opportunity to view these large-scale works in person. The gallery’s friendly and welcoming staff are always happy to provide insight into the available artworks, making it a rewarding visit for seasoned collectors and newcomers alike. 

Founded in 2014, Shapero Modern Gallery has become a leading destination for post-war and contemporary prints, known for its curatorial expertise and professional art advisory services. With six major exhibitions each year and regular appearances at international art fairs such as TEFAF Maastricht and Frieze Masters, the gallery has firmly established itself as a prominent force on the London art scene.

We had a fantastic time at Shapero Modern and are truly grateful to the team for such a warm welcome. If you haven’t already, make sure to drop by their flagship gallery at 94 New Bond Street. Whether you’re a lifelong Miró fan or just curious to see something new, it’s well worth the visit.