Mikros, Javier Rupérez

February 1 to 28, 2026

MIKROS offers an approach to the world of insects that goes beyond extreme macro photography to place them on a perceptual scale closer to that of humans.

The title is a nod to the microscopic realm, not because of the invisible, but because of that which, while real, usually remains outside our everyday experience.

Javier Rupérez's photographs combine impeccable technical rigor with an informative and sensitive approach. They do not merely show anatomical detail, but construct an almost portrait-like presence, in which the insects appear endowed with gestures and attitudes that refer to the human. The change of scale eliminates the usual symbolic distance and transforms what we usually perceive as insignificant into a complex and expressive body.

Javier Rupérez specializes in extreme macro photography and is dedicated to photographing insects and arachnids. These photographs attempt to reveal the hidden life of insects to our eyes, making details that are difficult to imagine visible. In reality, insects are the invisible artisans that sustain life on the planet. For example, pollinating insects (bees, butterflies, beetles, flies, etc.) are essential for life, thanks to them most plants reproduce, ecosystems are maintained, and much of the food we consume is produced. The exhibition is organized by the Association of Friends of La Concepción.

The idea of using dolls to recreate the garden's history was conceived by the artist Alberto Martin, who has been putting together displays with Barbie dolls for many years. After studying a number of late 19^th-century photographs, mostly from the Silvela Legacy, he created a series of almost identical scenes using not only the world-famous Barbie but also Ken, Madelman and other similar figures. Sponsored by the Malaga Foundation and the Friends of La Concepcion Association.

The aim of this exhibition is to portray both a key period in the history of La Concepcion and the Bourgeois lifestyle of the time in a way that will appeal to visitors of all ages. All of the materials used in the displays have been recycled: bottle tops, sink racks, clothes pegs, pencil sharpeners, pin cushions etc. Each figure is dressed in a different costume and hat made from dressmakers' cuttings; the hairstyles, fans and parasols sported by the women are all unique and were inspired by 19^th-century clothing catalogues.

This exhibition displays period furniture in the room that housed the library of the Casa Palacio in the 19th century. The room can be accessed through a methacrylate tunnel to prevent deterioration of the furniture. This is intended to enhance the value of the elements of this space, which has allowed not only to improve its preservation, but also to generate greater artistic and cultural interest among visitors. Most of this furniture is part of the municipal heritage and dates from the second half of the nineteenth century and the first half of the twentieth century. Some of the most noteworthy are the office table of General Espartero, made of oak and of French origin, which served as Jorge Loring's own desk; as well as a mahogany chair that accompanies it. Another valuable element is an English Edward VI style mahogany corner cabinet with built-in bookshelves, display cabinet, table and sofa.