Pilgrims who have travelled the Camino de Santiago’s last stages since last year know the murals that mark these last kilometers. They pay tribute to those who preserve the Jacobean spirit that is universal and singular at the same. Estrella Galicia initiated this artistic project under the title Las Estrellas del Camino. It is now being expanded to Portugal. This is the largest international art exhibition. He does it all in one year, in 2022, which is still Xacobeo. The new gallery, which covers the Portuguese Way, uses dialogue and twinning as a common thread. It is the idea of weaving an endless network of stories, encounters, and exchanges that emerge along the Jacobean route, and that embody its spirit.
The Camino Frances was the final seven stages of the exhibition, which added 140 km to the total. This artistic exhibition has been extended to 230 km, and now covers nine stages of Portugal’s Way, from Porto to Santiago de Compostela. Each one will be adorned with an outdoor mural by Lula Goce, a Galician artist, and Daniel Eime from Portugal. They will interact to create an artistic conversation.
The protagonists of these murals, as in the first installment, are nine people who have nine stories of resistance to tradition, the land and the Camino. They have learned how to overcome any obstacles that may come their way. Joaquin Sa (a 74-year old athlete who has made the round trip multiple times), is an award-winning pianist, cultural manager, and has been included in the Top 100 Leading Women of Spain ranking, or Enrique Ocampo. This represents the Ocampo family, which has been involved with the repair and construction of bells, including the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
The mural honoring Enrique Ocampo in Caldas de Reis, Pontevedra. / R.C.
The murals will appear on prominent locations such as Matosinhos (Porto), Barcelos and Ponte de Lima bridges. Two murals have been completed: one of Joaquin Sa in Rubiaes and one of Enrique Ocampo in Caldas de Reis. Both were portrayed by LulaGoce.
“We want to pay our deepest tribute to everyone who lives on the Camino. It has been a truly unique experience. It is a great way to reflect their stories through art created by two outstanding local artists. Santiago Miguelez, Estrella Galicia’s Marketing Director, comments that it is our way to thank them for all they do for the land and for keeping alive traditions that unify the peoples of Galicia.
Galicia’s and Portugal’s history is one of two sister towns that have maintained a strong bond throughout the centuries. The Way has been a crucial connector. As a bridge between people from different cultures and countries, dialogue is an important part of this trip. They share many experiences along their journey to Santiago de Compostela.
This new exhibition is based on dialogue. Lula Goce will be alternating with Daniel Eime throughout the route, creating a conversation through the murals, and strengthening the idea of exchange that was so prevalent in the Road.
Each mural will have a landmark that provides information about the person being depicted. These landmarks will form part of the new artistic road.
