96 - ERNEST SANTASUSAGNA SANTACREU (Barcelona, 1900 – Santa Coloma de Gramenet, Barcelona, 1964).

ERNEST SANTASUSAGNA SANTACREU (Barcelona, 1900 – Santa Coloma de Gramenet, Barcelona, 1964). “The Lesson.” Oil on canvas. Signed in the lower left corner. Measurements: 91 x 71 cm; 100 x 80 cm (frame). Ernest Santasusgana began his training at the Baixas Academy in Barcelona, then went on to further his studies at the La Lonja School of Arts and Crafts. He later became a professor at the latter, and when the institution’s programs were split up, he joined the faculty of the San Jorge School of Fine Arts as a full professor. He was a member of the Royal Artistic Circle and made his debut at the Parés Gallery in 1928. From then on, he regularly exhibited at La Pinacoteca, in addition to participating in the Autumn Salons and the Spring Exhibitions in Barcelona, among other competitions and exhibitions. He was awarded an honorable mention at the 1929 Barcelona International Exhibition, a third medal at the 1941 National Exhibition in Madrid, and the prize of honor at the 1944 National Exhibition in Barcelona. He was also awarded prizes twice by the Artistic Circle. In addition to his hometown, Santasusagna exhibited his work in Madrid, San Sebastián, and Bilbao, and participated in group exhibitions in Egypt, Brazil, Argentina, and Italy, as well as in the Venice Biennale, the Berlin Biennale, and the Buenos Aires Biennial of Spanish Contemporary Art. He also worked as a poster artist for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. His works are featured in various Spanish museums, as well as in numerous national and international collections.