MADRID -- On April 25, 1974, a remarkable shift occurred in Portugal as soldiers and civilians united to peacefully dismantle the Estado Novo regime, which had held power for over four decades. This pivotal moment was followed by Spain's transition to democracy after the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975. While both nations embarked on their democratic journeys during the same era, the political landscape has shifted dramatically in the past 50 years. Today, far-right parties are gaining traction in both Spain and Portugal, prompting reflections on the historical transformations of Iberian democracy.
The exhibition Inquietud. Libertad y Democracia at La Casa Encendida delves into these profound questions. Curated by Paulo Mendes and Sandra Vieira Jürgens, this compelling showcase features over 50 artists from Spain and Portugal, presenting nearly 80 works including paintings, photographs, videos, and sculptures that span the timeline of the democratic transitions. La Casa Encendida's Director, Pablo Berástegui, describes the exhibition as a vibrant sensory experience, capturing the essence of a transformative period.
The title of the exhibition is inspired by the song Inquietação (1982) by Portuguese artist José Mário Branco, which reflects a post-revolutionary sense of unease. The immersive installation features a plethora of revolution-era posters, speeches, and songs, creating an environment that feels both unfinished and dynamic. This design choice symbolizes the ongoing nature of democracy, emphasizing that it requires continuous effort and engagement from all.
Upon entering, visitors encounter a dimly lit gallery filled with large wooden crates reminiscent of art shipping containers. Here, Santiago Sierra and Jorge Galindo's poignant video Los Encargados (2012) sets a somber tone, depicting a procession of vehicles carrying inverted portraits of Spain's leaders, suggesting that the path to democracy has not been without its challenges.
Notably, the exhibition also features Eduardo Arroyo's striking dual portrait of Victor Emmanuel III, which critiques authoritarianism and draws parallels to Franco's regime. Additionally, Anna Jermolaewa's video installation The Doubles (2021) examines society's complex relationship with its historical leaders through the lens of impersonators in Moscow.
Highlighting the often-overlooked narratives of women during these regimes, Bárbara Fonte's lenticular photos Sem título (As mulheres do meu país) (2025) explore the roles of Portuguese women within traditional structures. The exhibition also addresses the colonial legacy that accompanied Portugal's revolution, illustrated through works like Francisco Vidal's vibrant portrait African Hair Cut 5 (2018), painted on machetes.
Inquietud stands as a thought-provoking exploration of democracy's fragile nature, reminding us of the vigilance required to safeguard liberty. As Berástegui aptly states, "Freedom isn't something given, but something earned." This exhibition is a timely reminder of our collective responsibility in nurturing democratic ideals.
Visit Inquietud. Libertad y Democracia at La Casa Encendida (Madrid) until March 8, where the dialogue surrounding freedom and democracy continues to unfold.
