I have to admit that I went for years unaware of this Spanish impressionist before an artist friend introduced me to a book of Joaquin Sorolla’s art. No mention was made of his stunning work in my art history books or courses. I suppose he was out of style in the 1960’s. I was astounded. His life-size beach scenes painted on the spot (as big as nine by ten feet!) are incredible. Last Christmas Ann gave me the beautiful new Sorolla book by his granddaughter Blanc-Pons Sorolla. Here are a few examples of his genius.

Joaquin Sorolla self portrait

Mother and child on the beach

Fisherman – detail

Fishing boat

Tuna fishermen