Belenes en Arganzuela
Casa del Reloj Cultural Centre, Municipal Council of Arganzuela
La Lonja exhibition hall
Paseo de la Chopera, 10
When the Nativity becomes Art, exhibition in honour of José Luis Mayo Lebrija
Opens 28 November, 7 pm
Until 10 January
Monday to Saturday 9 am - 9 pm, Sundays and holidays 10 am - 2 pm
24 and 31 December and 7 January 10 am - 2 pm
Closed 25 December and 1 and 6 January
This exhibition is a tribute to the master artisan José Luis Mayo Lebrija, one of the greatest and most renowned sculptors of contemporary nativity scenes, and his 40 years of devotion to his art. Since winning First Prize in the Nativity Figure Competition in 1984, Mayo Lebrija has dedicated his life to perfecting this art, bringing an innovative approach in his choice of both motifs and techniques for figure-crafting, and displaying a marked historical rigour and a profound artistic sensibility.
The exhibition consists of several thematic areas where visitors can immerse themselves in the richness and diversity of his work. There is a large central nativity scene, occupying an area of some 60 square metres, composed of more than 200 figures, which range from the smallest, just 7 cm tall, to the largest, of 35 to 40 cm, in the foreground of the display. This central nativity scene includes original and exclusive pieces, some created especially for this exhibition, and others that are part of his mass production. The Nativity group is the central focus of this majestic scene.
The exhibition also has a space dedicated to the artist’s workshop, recreating the environment in which Mayo Lebrija works. This area shows the utensils and materials used, such as clay, wood, wax and bronze, and displays moulds used in the production process for the figures. Visitors can see a photographic sequence and a video documenting the artist’s creative process, from clay modelling to final production. There are also some of the qualifications and distinctions that he has amassed throughout his career on show.
One of the most interesting aspects of the exhibition is his collaboration with two prominent Spanish dioramists, Ascensión Esteban and Roque Gallego, who create open-air scenes with figures made by Mayo Lebrija. These include the “Flight into Egypt” and the “Workshop at Nazareth”, where the carefully detailed scenery and setting breathe life into the historic characters and events.
You can trace Mayo Lebrija’s artistic career through a historical journey, divided into four main stages that span from 1984 to 2024. These areas feature iconic figures and nativity scenes that have marked every stage of his career, from his first creations in his own home to major international commissions and exhibitions. Some of the highlights include the Gran Belén de la Villa de París, his collaboration with Madrid’s Nativity Scene Association and his clay figures, which are a fundamental part of his legacy.
Finally, the exhibition includes several dioramas created by renowned dioramists in honour of the master, using figures made by Mayo Lebrija to recreate endearing scenes such as “The Birth”, “The Adoration of the Shepherds” and “The Annunciation”.
These dioramas will be accompanied by two scenes created by Mayo Lebrija himself, “The Adoration of the Shepherds” and “The Birth”.
In short, this exhibition not only celebrates José Luis Mayo Lebrija’s four decades of dedication to the art of the Nativity, but also allows the public the opportunity to admire unique pieces and discover lesser-known aspects of his work. This is a tribute to a true master of the nativity scene, whose art has transcended borders and epochs, enriching the tradition with his unparalleled talent and vision.
Centro Dotacional Integrado Arganzuela Ángel del Río
Exhibition hall
Calle Canarias, 17
Icono silla de ruedas
Mary: woman, friend, wife and mother
21 November - 12 January
Monday to Saturday 10 am - 9 pm
Closed 6, 24, 25 and 31 December, 1 and 6 January and Sundays
The exhibition “Mary: woman, friend, wife and mother” is an artistic and spiritual representation of the life of the Virgin Mary shown through various scenes and elements, reflecting her relevance to the Christian tradition. In seven dioramas, visitors will be able to witness key moments of her life, from her humility and devotion as a woman to her fundamental role as the mother of Jesus. Three scenes will illustrate highlights of her life, such as her visit to Elizabeth and the birth of Jesus.
The exhibition also includes a selection of figures by renowned Spanish artists, as well as canvases, photographs and posters illustrating Christmas scenes and aspects of traditional Spanish culture. These are accompanied by explanatory texts that guide visitors on a journey full of symbolism and devotion. Finally, a large-scale nativity scene forms the heart of the exhibition, focusing our attention on the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem.
Espacio Exterior Centro Intergeneracional Ouka Leele
Calle Bronce, 16
Birth – Mystery – Ouka Leele
11 November - 10 January
Monday to Friday 9 am - 10 pm, Saturdays and Sundays 10 am - 10 pm
Closed 24, 25 and 31 December and 1 January
Other holidays as Sunday opening times
This Christmas, the OUKA LEELE Intergenerational Centre plays hosts to a spectacular nativity scene with life-size figures up to 1.70 metres tall, bringing to life the Olot school of art. This collection of sculptures, created by the renowned Christian Art Workshops of Olot, is a reflection of the dedication and skill for which these artisans have been recognised since their foundation in 1880, with their work exported and admired in many countries.
The nativity scene features the figures of Saint Joseph, the Virgin Mary, the Baby Jesus and a shepherd, all modelled in meticulous detail. The sculptures are made of wood pulp, gracing them with a natural texture and finish that reinforce their realism and beauty. Each figure has been designed with a sense of historical fidelity that not only captures the essence of the characters but also their clothing, in a palette that evokes the colours and fabrics of the time. Tunics, cloaks and turbans reflect the Hebrew aesthetics of these figures, offering us a glimpse of the clothing typical of the region in the time of Jesus.
This ensemble is not just a work of art but an invitation to contemplation and recollection. Its presence in the centre aims to unite different generations around the Christmas tradition, encouraging a shared experience and appreciation for history and culture.