(Salon of the Rejected)
1863, France. A group of artists see how their works are rejected by the jury of the official Paris Salon and therefore cannot exhibit their paintings in the Salon. Ridiculed by many art critics, they are allowed by the Emperor Napoleon III to create a parallel exhibition.
That was the first Salon of the Rejected.
2013, Spain. The financial crisis that has been shaking Western markets since 2008, has specially affected Spain and taken its toll on those issues “less important” to the economy, such as culture. Consequently, throngs of young artists have been forced to leave their country in search of better opportunities and a chance for their artworks.
They are the rejected of the 21st century.
2014, United Kingdom. Although far away from home, and hence, from the problem, Lon-art.org, as an organisation engaged with both art and social justice mainly composed by Spaniards, wants to join those who fight restlessly against the current situation in Spain. London is one of the main destinations chosen by our “young adventurers” and thus its rainy streets are filled with Spanish rejected talent. Lon-art.org wants to offer them a space not only to exhibit their work, but also to speak their minds, denounce the situation in their home country and let the public join in the protest.
That is going to be “El salón de los rechazados españoles”, The Salon of the Spanish Rejects.