Born in 1947 into a blue-collar family near Barcelona, Ramon Vilanova found inspiration in the lush landscapes of northeastern Spain. Despite his parents’ discouragement, Vilanova’s passion for painting proved irresistible. As a self-taught artist, he has built an extraordinary career, earning critical acclaim for his evocative depictions of Catalonia’s countryside and the serene beauty of Majorca and Minorca. His works have been exhibited in prestigious museums across Europe.
Vilanova’s paintings capture the essence of the natural world with remarkable immediacy. Painting en plein air, he immerses himself in the moment, translating the light, atmosphere, and texture of his surroundings onto the canvas. Whether portraying a windswept sea, a vibrant field of wildflowers, or a rustic farmhouse nestled in verdant foliage, his bold palette knife strokes convey authenticity and emotional depth.
Vilanova’s unwavering commitment to realism is central to his work. A notable example of this dedication arose when a client commissioned him to paint sunflowers out of season. Reluctant at first, Vilanova ultimately agreed but depicted the scene as it appeared—withered, with rotting sunflowers—staying true to the landscape as he saw it. This anecdote underscores his philosophy: to represent nature as it is, unembellished and honest.
