12 - JOSÉ SOLER NAVARRO (Murcia, 1987).

JOSÉ SOLER NAVARRO (Murcia, 1987). "The Cat KH. Yellow" 2026. Steel. Edition 1/25. Certificate of authenticity included. Measurements: 27x26x7 cm. In this work, José Soler pays homage to the creative universe of Keith Haring, one of the great icons of American urban art, by reinterpreting his characteristic graphic language through the figure of a cat. The sculpture features a silhouette with geometric shapes and defined contours, with pointed ears, whiskers, and an upright tail as essential elements of its identity. The intense yellow enhances its playful and expressive character, while the formal simplification and boldness of the profile evoke the visual immediacy of Haring’s creations. The piece thus establishes a dialogue with the New York artist’s animal iconography, particularly his famous barking dog—one of the most recognizable symbols of his work and his commitment to social criticism. José Soler, who holds a diploma in technical architecture and a degree in building engineering, defines himself as an artist and metal engineer. Recognized as an official artisan of the Region of Murcia, he has developed a personal sculptural language based on metalwork and the exploration of geometries, lines, volumes, and colors. His works have been exhibited and sold internationally. Notable among his projects are “Naturaleza forjada” (2019), “Los Tres Pilares” (2020), and “Seda de acero” (2021), the latter of which received a grant for artistic development. His awards include the Artistic Merit Award from the Luxembourg Art Prize and an honorable mention at Crearte Molina (2022), the Critics’ Prize in Genoa (2018), and the Palma d’Oro per l’Arte in Monte Carlo (2016).