The Spanish artist Antonio Blanco is jokingly called the Dali of Bali. Blanco and Dali really do have a lot in common - from nationality to painting style and the depth of their talent.
Blanco was born into a Spanish family in the Philippines, studied in New York, visited many countries around the world, but when he arrived in Bali, he immediately realized that this was exactly where he had always dreamed of living. He was enchanted by the island's incredible nature, thousand-year-old temples and ancient culture, the simple and friendly islanders, and the wonderful climate. Here he met the love of his life and his muse, Ni Rondji - a beautiful and sensual Balinese dancer. They settled in the epicenter of culture and the arts, Ubud, and Antonio's творчество flourished, inspired by the woman he loved and the bright colors of Bali.
The house-museum of Antonio Blanco, or Blanco Renaissance Museum, breaks all the stereotypes associated with the word museum. There are no dusty display cases, deathly silence, or slightly tedious monologues from guides. In the courtyard of the villa, the colors of the tropics run riot and exotic birds live there, Blanco's paintings delight the eye in the rooms, and in the garden guests are served exotic cocktails.
The artist's house is itself a work of art - from the golden statues of Balinese dancers crowning the roof, frozen in dance, to the विशाल stone arch preceding the entrance to the house - it is the largest artist's autograph in the world, carved from stone.
Until 2010, visitors were welcomed by Ni Rondji herself, showing them the paintings of her beloved husband and the magnificent interior of the house in the Art Deco style. Today, Blanco's house is managed by the son of Antonio and Ni, who will give you the most interesting tour of the brightest museum in Bali, and perhaps in the whole world.
