Angel de Leon

Angel de Leon (b. 1995, Barcelona) is a contemporary Spanish artist whose vibrant, satirical works explore themes of social roles, aesthetics, and consumption. His distinctive technique involves recontextualizing historical imagery—such as Holbein’s dancing skeletons and vanitas symbols—into expressive, large-scale compositions that provoke thought and dialogue.

Initially pursuing design and engineering, de Leon shifted to fine art after being deemed "too artsy" for his university's design program. He relocated to London, earning a BA in Painting from Wimbledon College of Arts and an MA in Fine Art from Chelsea College of Arts. His work gained early recognition, featuring in exhibitions like "London Grads Now" at the Saatchi Gallery in 2020.

De Leon's practice is noted for its use of traditional etching techniques and references to German contemporary art, blending classical methods with modern commentary. His pieces often incorporate familiar symbols—such as Hokusai’s wave and Picasso’s bulls—collaged in ways that challenge societal norms and values.

In 2020, de Leon founded Plataforma², a contemporary art space in Barcelona dedicated to showcasing early and mid-career artists. The venue has hosted exhibitions like "Contemporary Voices," featuring international artists and focusing on themes of uncertainty and existential search.

De Leon continues to live and work in Barcelona, contributing to the city's dynamic art scene through both his personal practice and curatorial efforts at Plataforma².

NAUSEA

15 - 20 Apr 2025

Jean-Paul Sartre's first novel Nausea (Penguin Press, 1938) captures something of today, something that Angel, Hayfa, HazzA, Samo, and Sara image out, too: an unease with the current moment; a...