Meet the Artist: Camil Giralt

Our latest campaign for Affordable Art Fair Hampstead (7 – 11 May) spotlights the beautiful work of Camil Giralt, a Barcelona-born artist whose abstract compositions explore balance and inner harmony. Known for his distinctive approach to colour, form, and space, Camil’s practice has evolved from horizon-inspired landscapes to the vibrant works of his About Colour series.

Read on to discover his creative journey, inspirations, and what it means to be our Hampstead campaign artist.

“My work is a search for inner balance, which to me is explained in concepts such as calm, silence and distance.”

What inspires your work?

I seek inner balance, which to me is expressed through concepts like calm, silence, and distance.

In my early abstract works, I explored horizons – flat, distant, and symbolic of this balance. Growing up by the sea, I was drawn to this theme naturally, but I was also inspired by the photographer Hiroshi Sugimoto, whose large-format seascapes deeply influenced me.

Now, I continue exploring these ideas but through form, colour, and space, constantly evolving my approach while maintaining the same core themes.

“I need time and tranquillity to create.”

What does your ideal creative environment look like?

I spend long hours painting, so I prefer a studio-flat setup, where I can focus without distractions. Having a space that allows uninterrupted creation is essential to my process. Since my paintings develop slowly, I need time to evaluate each piece, refine my ideas, and experiment with new approaches.

“For painting, I prefer silence – it helps me think and feel clearly.”

Does music inspire your work?

Surprisingly, no! While I studied classical music and piano, my painting process is entirely visual. Many assume music would be a source of inspiration, but I actually prefer to work in silence – it helps me think and feel clearly.

“The About Colour series marked a turning point in my career.”

What has been the highlight of your artistic journey?

Rather than a single milestone, I feel I’m currently in a pivotal moment—collaborating with new galleries, participating in more exhibitions, and expanding my reach.

However, a key turning point was four years ago when I began developing my About Colour series. I experimented with ink on a quartz base, shifting my focus from space – driven compositions to defined shapes and colour as the central element of my work. This transformation truly shaped the direction of my art today.

“I’m drawn to abstract works that captivate me and demand contemplation.”

What do you look for when purchasing art?

I’m particularly drawn to abstract works that create an emotional connection—pieces that pull you in and make you want to contemplate them for a long time.

One artist I admire is Marria Pratts, a Barcelona-based multidisciplinary artist. Her work has a wonderful sense of freedom and expression, and I love her technique and use of colour.

Can you tell us about your unique medium?

Before this, I worked with ink on handmade paper, which I loved for its texture and transparency. However, I wanted to achieve similar results on canvas.

After six months of experimenting, I developed my own quartz-based surface, which absorbs ink in a way that mimics paper. To my knowledge, this is a completely unique technique, exclusive to my work.

I am not aware of anyone else using this technique, so I think I can say that it is exclusively my own technique.

“Being the campaign artist is a wonderful opportunity.”

What excites you most about Affordable Art Fair Hampstead?

I was genuinely surprised and honoured to be selected as the campaign artist among so many talented exhibitors.

I’m looking forward to meeting fellow artists, collectors, and visitors, exchanging ideas, and sharing my passion for art in person. I’m also grateful to Envie d’Art in Paris, who are presenting my work at the fair.

“I developed my own technique – painting on quartz bases.”

You can discover more from Camil Giralt at Envie d’Art’s stand at Affordable Art Fair Hampstead, alongside over 100 leading galleries and thousands of stunning artworks.

Affordable Art Fair will be returning to the Heath from 7 – 11 May 2025 – get your tickets now!