José María Leal

Wood sculptor

©Jaime Rodríguez

Astounding estofado

José María passionately crafts religious pieces
For him, each piece is a manifestation of faith
Seville has been fundamental to his work

Trained at the Faculty of Fine Arts of the Royal Academy of Santa Isabel de Hungría, José María Leal has been creating works since the early 2000s. His pieces reflect the devotion and spirituality of his religious faith. For him, his work is a celebration of his Catholic and Christian heritage. "I had always dreamed of being an 'imaginero' sculptor since childhood. I admire the great friendship of my grandfather with the imaginero D. Francisco Buiza, whom he operated on after a motorcycle accident," says José María. "This, coupled with the fact that my grandfather was a great art collector, allowed me to learn to love various types of sculpture since my childhood." Seville, the city where he was born, has been a key element in his vocation. "It is a city that has preserved for five centuries the tradition of polychrome imagery, which remains a unique mark in the world. My city is a great reference in terms of the production of sacred sculpture."

Interview

©Jaime Rodríguez

©Jaime Rodríguez

How would you define the technique of estofado that you work with?: Sacred sculpture demands mastery of a multitude of techniques. Estofado is a technique of egg tempera painting on fine gold that allows you to reproduce ornamental designs imitating the embroidery of ancient fabrics.
Where do you feel most comfortable?: I would describe myself as an absolute lover of clay modelling. It is a way for me to express myself to the world, and it brings me a lot of tranquility. I also like preparing pieces in wood, applying stucco, and polychroming them with oil.
How do you incorporate innovation into your work?: My work is eminently traditional in its conception and treatment. Nowadays what is innovative are the techniques for reproducing final materials such as 3D scanners or the use of robotics in the case of knitted pieces.
What do you enjoy most about your profession?: I love practically every aspect of my profession. I deeply cherish it. If I had to highlight something, it would be the contact with materials, clay, wood, colours, etc. Modelling allows me to experience unique emotions and feelings.

José María Leal are expert artisans: they began their career in 2002 and they started teaching in 2020