CULTURE IN GAUCÍN. A CREATIVE HAVEN AMONG THE MOUNTAINS
Gaucín, nestled in the mountains of the Serranía de Ronda, is much more than a typical Andalusian white village. With its views over the Strait of Gibraltar, its tranquil atmosphere, and streets full of history, this corner of Málaga has attracted artists from all over the world for decades. Today, Gaucín is also a cultural landmark, where art and tradition coexist in perfect harmony. Four key pillars sustain the village’s artistic life: the Centro Cultural El Convento, the Espacio Sánchez Zabaleta, the Shapó Olé Gallery, and the annual event Art Gaucín, Open Studios.
CENTRO CULTURAL “EL CONVENTO”. THE CULTURAL HEART OF THE VILLAGE
Once a Carmelite convent, this historic building has been transformed into a vibrant and versatile cultural center. El Convento hosts concerts, exhibitions, lectures, and workshops throughout the year, becoming a meeting point for residents, visitors, and artists alike. Its serene atmosphere and traditional architecture make it an ideal place for artistic reflection and cultural enjoyment.
Address: Calle Convento 105, Gaucín
ESPACIO SÁNCHEZ ZABALETA. THE ART OF THE REAL
Sánchez Zabaleta is a self-taught painter closely linked to Spanish realism.
His work is already part of private and institutional collections and has been included in the permanent collection of the Museum of Contemporary Spanish Realism (MUREC) in Almería.
Today, Sánchez Zabaleta paints from Gaucín, Málaga, where he has created a permanent space dedicated to showcasing his work.
His painting is defined by its visual poetics: everyday or abandoned objects and settings are transformed into symbols of memory and change. There is a clear intention to explore the human trace, our sense of belonging, and the ways in which we inhabit spaces.
More than just a gallery, this space is an open window into the creative soul of one of the most renowned artists who has found in Gaucín not only a home but also an endless source of inspiration.
Address: Calle San Juan de Dios 9, Gaucín
Contact phone: +34 678 657 222
Summer opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 11:00 – 13:30
Winter opening hours: Thursday to Saturday, 11:30 – 13:30
Fotografías Sue Callister
SHAPÓ OLÉ GALLERY. CONTEMPORARY ART WITH PERSONALITY
Shapó Olé is a contemporary art gallery in the heart of Gaucín, conceived as a space where diverse forms of expression converge: painting, photography, sculpture, and printmaking. The gallery is firmly committed to fostering creativity and promoting artistic talent in all its forms, thus contributing to a vibrant and ever-evolving community.
More than just a gallery, Shapó Olé is a meeting point for innovation, inspiration, and dialogue, where artists and art lovers can connect and share their passion.
Address: Calle Luis de Armiñán 67, Gaucín, 29480, Málaga, Spain
Email: gallery@shapoole.es
Phone: +34 652 306 891
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 – 13:00
ART GAUCIN. OPEN STUDIOS
The stunning “white villages” of Andalusia have inspired artists for centuries. Gaucín, perched on the balcony of the Serranía de Ronda, is full of history and charm, making it one of the most attractive destinations in the region.
Overlooking the spectacular Genal Valley and even Africa, Gaucín is a picturesque village in Málaga. Hidden among its flower-filled whitewashed streets you will find the studios of more than twenty artists from a wide range of disciplines.
Art Gaucín has grown steadily over the past two decades and now represents more than 20 Spanish and international artists, including painters, sculptors, printmakers, and photographers.
Every year, during two weekends in May, the artists open their studios wide to welcome visitors and showcase their latest works. You can also contact them directly to arrange a private visit to the studios that interest you.
It is a unique opportunity to discover art in its place of origin, meet the artists in person, and experience Gaucín as a living museum—where every street and every house can hold a surprise.
