Have you ever wondered about the story behind Las Meninas—and how it continues to inspire artists today?

This enduring mystery has captivated generations of artists and viewers, fueling its lasting influence on contemporary art.

My Personal Connection to Las Meninas

I’ve always been drawn to Las Meninas—perhaps for their mystery, or the strength of their visual presence.

Over time, I’ve collected a few pieces that hold special meaning for me—not only for what they represent, but for the stories they carry.

One is a ceramic Menina by Coello, gifted to me by my friend Blanca on my birthday. Since we both come from Valladolid, my hometown, it holds particular sentimental value. Her expression is friendly and familiar—almost lifelike. After surviving a minor household accident, I managed to repair her, and now I cherish her even more.

In contrast, I also have a Menina by Sargadelos, received as a wedding gift. This one is entirely different: faceless, elegantly minimal, yet striking with the vibrant colours that are so distinctive of Sargadelos porcelain.

Beyond these figurines, I also have small accessories—a brooch and a pendant—that reflect my admiration for this iconic figure and her ability to adapt across styles and materials.

Las Meninas in Contemporary Art

I’m not alone in my fascination. Many artists have reimagined Las Meninas over the years, and one of the most striking reinterpretations is the series A Twist on the Masters by Bego Lafuente, available through Belma Craft & Art.

A Twist on the Masters: A Contemporary Take on a Classic

Bego Lafuente takes icons of classical art and brings them into a fresh, modern context, blending pop art, vintage aesthetics, and expressive elements. Her work merges traditional techniques with digital media, creating pieces that are visually rich and versatile.

Highlights from the Series

• Menina María Agustina: Inspired by Velázquez’s Las Meninas, it preserves the unmistakable silhouette of the Menina while offering a contemporary take.
• Menina de los Círculos: Pareja visual de la anterior, ambas forman parte del diálogo artístico que define la serie.

Each work is conceived as part of a pair, establishing visual and conceptual conversations between characters and their stories. Using mixed media—acrylic and sand on acid-free cotton canvas, stretched and framed in black lacquered wood—Lafuente brings new life to these timeless icons.

As Bego herself explains, “We all carry images of the great masters in our collective memory.”

Her aim is to revive them and place them in today’s world, offering a visual experience that is sometimes playful, sometimes provocative. Because even if we can’t own an original Velázquez, we can connect with his spirit in ways that speak to our time.

Discover the Bego Lafuente Collection at Belma Craft & Art

I’m thrilled to share with you a selection of works from Bego Lafuente’s *A Twist on the Masters* series—a collection that brings classical strength into a modern, expressive language full of personality.

The series includes acrylics on canvas and limited-edition digital works—ideal for interiors and for collectors who appreciate art with character.

These pieces are not yet available online, but if you’re interested in discovering them, feel free to reach out. I’ll be happy to send you images, pricing, and availability personally.

Las Meninas in Madrid

Meninas Madrid Gallery—the largest outdoor art exhibition in the world. Each year, artists and designers create unique versions of Las Meninas inspired by the spirit of the city.

One example is this Menina by Cristina Oria, the renowned chef, who together with her team designed it in her signature black and white colours, hand-painted with motifs from her tableware collection.

Other artists who have reimagined Las Meninas

Manolo Valdés → A pioneer of the “Menina fever” in Madrid, he brought the iconic figure into large-scale bronze sculpture. His version became a contemporary reference, with works exhibited not only in Madrid but also in New York and Paris.r Artists Who Have Reimagined Las Meninas

Antonio Azzato → Founder of the Meninas Madrid Gallery, he invited artists, designers and public figures to reinterpret Las Meninas through 1.80-meter sculptures, turning the figure into a symbol of urban art.

Luis Agulló → Offers a fresh and colourful take on Las Meninas, using iron and acrylic over a fiberglass base.

Felipao (Felipe García-Bañón Sanz-Briz) → Known for his 448-faceted polyhedral Meninas, Felipao combines bold colour, innovative design and technology, merging classical art with a cutting-edge style. His works form part of renowned private collections, underscoring their prestige.

Camila Puya de Arcos → Designer, artisan and creative director of Margaret de Arcos, she has reinterpreted Las Meninas in silk for her Decor collection. These pieces bring a luxurious and elegant perspective to the classic figure through textile design.

Each of these artists shows how a single figure can be endlessly reimagined—keeping Velázquez’s legacy alive and ever-evolving.

Las Meninas: A Timeless Symbol

Over the centuries, Las Meninas have taken many forms—from paintings to ceramics to fashion—yet their essence remains. For me, beyond the original canvas, las Meninas represent a symbol of reinvention.

Perhaps that’s the true magic— that after all this time, they still capture our imagination and spark creativity.

Do you have a Menina of your own?

Today, artists and creatives continue to explore new interpretations of this iconic figure, keeping her presence alive in our visual culture.

Have you come across a version of Las Meninas that moved you, or do you have one in your home?

I’d love to hear from you and keep discovering these fascinating works together.

Warm regards,

Belen Rodríguez · Belma Craft & Art

---