Juan Luis Goenaga was a prominent Basque artist known for his highly personal style combining tradition and modernity, and embracing a wide variety of mediums, from painting, engraving and watercolour to sculpture. His main source of inspiration was nature and the rich cultural heritage of the Basque Country. All his works, but particularly his paintings, are noted for a singular use of matter, colour and abstract forms often redolent of landscapes. Goenaga’s creative process was predicated on pure improvisation; he did not follow any strict or pre-planned method but instead was guided by the inspiration of the moment, which enabled him to spontaneously explore new ideas and paths. As the artist himself once stated in an interview: “I never know how the work is going to end up.” For him, the process was more important than the end result, open to any surprise that may arise during the creation of the work and to the unrestrained evolution of his art. Goenaga explored subject matters like identity and memory through works inviting reflection.

In Itxurain, he takes a look at the connection between form and colour, defined by a vibrant palette of various red, brown and orange tones. Though the work is predominantly abstract in nature, it is suggestive of an emotional connection with the surrounding environment, not only inviting contemplation but also opening a door to a rethinking of our perception and interpretation of space.

Goenaga's exhibitions during the 1970s were pivotal in his career inasmuch as they consolidated his reputation as an innovator in contemporary Spanish art. His unique style and commitment to visual exploration would continue to resonate throughout all his later work.