The photographic legacy of Ginés Cuesta, the renowned Barcelona photographer known for capturing the beauty of everyday life in Barcelona's neighbourhoods, was commemorated in a moving presentation of his posthumous book La Barcelona fotografiada de Ginés Cuesta.
The presentation was held at the ‘Roquetes – Nou Barris Historical Archive in the ‘Espai Via Favència in Nou Barris on 9 ‘April 2024 and brought together family, friends, colleagues and photography lovers to celebrate the ‘work of ‘this artist, who left an indelible legacy through his images. Isabel Segura, a historian and the author of the book, highlighted the powerful impact of Cuesta’s work on historical photography in Barcelona and underscored his ability to capture beauty in every corner of the city. Jordi Sánchez i Ruiz, the president of the archive, started the presentation with a moving musical performance and allowed an attendee at the event close it the same way.
Graphic Memory of the Verdun Neighbourhood
The images compiled in the book include a broad range of spaces, from the Rambla to the port, but they particularly spotlight life in the Verdun neighbourhood during the 1960s and its transformation over time. Through his photographs, Cuesta captured the essence of the neighbourhoods and their people, immortalising unique moments and urban landscapes which have now become the testimony of the city’s history.
The audience at the presentation was reminded of Cuesta’s dedication and commitment to his work, projecting the image of his city: "I’ve always looked for beauty. If you look for it, you always find it. All you have to do is wait for the time of day when the light is favourable." This vision guided his work and contributed to the creation of an important legacy.
Despite his death in May 2023, Ginés Cuesta’s legacy will live on through his work, which is now the subject of a well-deserved homage in the form of a book. La Barcelona fotografiada de Ginés Cuesta is not only a compilation of striking images but also a testimony to the life and work of an exceptional photographer who deserves a prominent place in the history of both photography and Barcelona.