Curatorial notes
Rafael Zabaleta made this painting "Women in Countryside" with oil on canvas. Zabaleta sets the scene with strong outlines and bold colors that feel like a folk tale waiting to be told. The paint is applied in layers, thick in some spots and thin in others. The painting captures the essence of rural life with a touch of modern flair. Take a look at the pitcher on the table. It's more than just a still-life object; it's got this beautiful, milky glaze, like it’s been used for generations. The pitcher feels alive. Zabaleta really understands how to make the ordinary feel extraordinary. It reminds me of a more grounded, Spanish take on Matisse, with that same love for color and pattern. It’s a painting that invites you to linger, to look closely, and to find your own story within its layers.
