BILBAO.- A treasure trove of art historical knowledge is now available to the public with the release of "Con el tiempo: Investigaciones, estudios y otros escritos" (Over Time: Investigations, Studies, and Other Writings) by acclaimed historian, researcher, and professor Adelina Moya Valgañón. Published by the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum in collaboration with the BBK Banking Foundation, this new book gathers nearly all of Moya Valgañón's diverse writings on art, many of which were previously scattered across out-of-print catalogs, magazines, and monographs.


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The 464-page anthology features 34 texts dating from the mid-1980s to the present day. These writings offer a deep dive into art, reflecting not only the evolution of Moya Valgañón's distinguished career but also her significant contributions to understanding art history. She's particularly noted for her work in recovering artists like Nicolás de Lekuona and shedding light on contemporary art historiography, including the vital roles of photography and women in art.


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"Con el tiempo" is organized into three main sections: Investigations, Studies, and Conversations/Comments. The collection includes in-depth analyses of specific artists, critical examinations of art produced since the mid-1930s, and engaging interviews with active contemporary artists. A notable addition is "Aprendiendo (a mirar) con Ángel Bados" (Learning (to See) with Ángel Bados), a previously unpublished text based on a 2022 conference delivered at San Telmo Museoa.

The book highlights Moya Valgañón's extensive research into the Basque and Spanish avant-garde, particularly the reception of modernist movements in the 1930s. Her foundational work on Nicolás de Lekuona, whom she began studying in 1979, is a cornerstone of the collection. She's credited with cataloging Lekuona's work and curating numerous exhibitions that have solidified his place as a leading figure in the Spanish avant-garde.

Moya Valgañón also explores the intricate relationship between photography and painting, with articles on artists like José Alemany and Darío Villalba. This focus stems from her academic background, where she pioneered the Photography and Art course at the University of the Basque Country in the mid-1990s. Her comprehensive studies on Jorge Oteiza, a pivotal avant-garde sculptor, are also featured, examining his work and his connections to other artists.

The book further delves into the Basque art scene, covering significant events like the Certamen de Artistas Nóveles de Gipuzkoa and the history of Sala Stvdio, a gallery to which she dedicated a curated exhibition and catalog in 2008. A substantial portion of the writings is dedicated to specific artists from the 1960s, 1980s, and 1990s generations, including Isabel Baquedano, Txomin Badiola, and Damaris Pan.

A recurring theme throughout Moya Valgañón's career, prominently featured in the book, is her dedication to women artists. Inspired by her Art and Women course, which she also established in the mid-90s, the book includes extensive texts on figures like María Paz Jiménez and Mari Puri Herrero, alongside feminist perspectives on art historical themes such as the self-portrait. The book also showcases her unique dialogue methodology, exemplified by conversations with art historian Juan Manuel Bonet and artist Alberto Peral.

Adelina Moya Valgañón, born in Córdoba in 1944, holds a doctorate in History from the University of Zaragoza. She was a tenured professor at the University of the Basque Country's Faculty of Fine Arts from 1984 to 2007, where her innovative courses significantly impacted the study of photography and women in art. Her profound contributions to the visual arts were recognized with the Gure Artea prize from the Basque Government in 2013.

Beyond her academic and literary work, Moya Valgañón has a distinguished career as an exhibition curator for prominent institutions like the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía and the Fundació Joan Miró. Her tireless efforts have been crucial in bringing significant artists and art movements to wider audiences.

"Con el tiempo" is available now for €40. It's a must-read for art enthusiasts, scholars, and anyone interested in a comprehensive journey through contemporary art history, seen through the insightful lens of a leading expert.