Discussion panel: “Artist and Artisan”, with Manolo Alcántara

On Thursday, October 9, from 12 pm to 2 pm, at La Central del Circ, the discussion panel “Artist and Artisan” will take place with Manolo Alcántara, as part of the 3rd edition of the 360º Accompaniment Circuit within the Circus Development Plan (2023–2026).

The discussion panels are spaces for close and informal exchange, designed to share experiences, reflections, and knowledge about artistic issues. They are facilitated by artists and companies with established careers.

On this occasion, Alcántara offers a unique perspective: more than an artist, he defines himself as an artisan. His love for craftsmanship, ingenuity, and handmade creations permeates his entire body of work. With more than 25 years of experience, he has evolved from a more demonstrative form of circus to creations in which technique dissolves to serve the performance.

Despite this evolution, there are constants that define his artistic DNA: patience in creation, a preference for suggestion over explicit explanation, and careful attention to visual language, always with innovative and self-made structures.

“Artist and Artisan”

In a scenic universe where space and unique structures become co-protagonists, what is the first creative impulse? Are these elements the origin of the shows, or does everything stem from a more abstract idea? In a context that demands immediacy, how can one find the time to think, develop, make mistakes, and start again? And when the artist and the artisan coexist within the same person, who ultimately has the final say?

Practical Information

The activity is aimed at emerging contemporary circus artists and is free of charge with prior registration. Registrations will be accepted in order of arrival (maximum 20 participants).