Madrid’s Museo Reina Sofía Pair Picasso’s Guernica with Dumile Feni’s African Guernica in Major New Exhibition

Artistic Dialogue at Museo Reina Sofía

Art lovers visiting Madrid have a rare opportunity to view South African artist Dumile Feni’s masterpiece, African Guernica, shown internationally for the first time. Displayed at the iconic Museo Reina Sofía from 25 March to 22 September 2026, the monumental 1967 charcoal drawing is placed alongside Pablo Picasso’s famous 1937 anti-war painting Guernica.

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Understanding the Exhibition

Curated by Tamar Garb, the showcase launches the museum's new intervention series, titled History Doesn’t Repeat Itself, but It Does Rhyme. The initiative brings Picasso's masterpiece into direct conversation with significant works from distinct geopolitical and historical contexts.

Created amidst the systemic oppression and state violence of South African apartheid, Feni's large-scale piece shares notable visual and thematic ties with Picasso's response to the Spanish Civil War. Visitors can examine the striking parallels between both masterpieces, including:

• Monochromatic tones and expressive figure distortions

• Dramatic lighting contrast and abstract spatial compositions

• Intertwined human and animal motifs addressing conflict and human suffering

Exhibition Highlights and Related Works

Alongside the central pairing, the presentation features additional works by Feni, offering deeper insights into the South African modern art pioneer. The exhibition is supported by loan contributions from South Africa's University of Fort Hare, alongside institutions such as Stellenbosch University and the Spier Arts Trust. Related academic activities, seminars, and a opening musical performance titled Inkomo iwile by Philip Miller and Tshegofatso Moeng accompany the display.

Visitor Information

Tickets to view the special exhibition and the permanent collection can be purchased directly through the official Museo Reina Sofía ticketing portal.