A few days ago the remarkable Enfocades exhibition was inaugurated at Casa Elizalde. It was an act consistent with some relevant events: the Barcelona headquarters in 1839 of the first photography in Spain and the commemoration of the first centenary of the Agrupació Fotogràfica de Catalunya. Within this general framework, it is worth noting that the aforementioned exhibition is monographic and dedicated to nine historical photographers from the Agrupació.
In this way, justice is rendered to the creation within it of Feminal in 1924, just one year after the foundation of the aforementioned artistic entity, to welcome associates who recognized themselves attracted to photography and its practice. The name chosen was indicative of the singularity sought: the same as the magazine that had previously emerged thanks to the dynamism and combativeness of Carme Karr, a pioneer of Barcelona feminism. The initiative of those young photographers did not materialize, despite the good reception they had received.
That gesture was not forgotten. The proof was that it was repeated in 1956. Salvador Lluch promoted adding the female presence; In the weekly gathering organized with them, the name of Grup Femení arose, which became a pioneering event in Spain. It was all about learning, practicing and trading trends.
It goes without saying that the environment created over time by repressive uses and customs towards women made it difficult for them to avoid social and, of course, cultural segregation.
In the Agrupació they found from the first moment a most propitious environment, at the same time that it represented a novel and stimulating counterpoint for the rest of the associates. The proof was that after the specialized courses and the exchange of ideas, the results became immediate and encouraging: they were accepted in relevant collective exhibitions and distinguished with many awards. Without forgetting to emphasize that the atmosphere of the time was not yet the most propitious.
The large set of works by nine photographers that is exhibited (until May 13) at Casa Elizalde is an outstanding event in this marked year; deserves to be visited. The next ones will be at the Arxiu Fotogràfic de Barcelona and then at the Agrupació headquarters, which will be inaugurated on the same day as the centenary.
