Interview: Pilar Aymerich

Elles x Paris Photo

Pilar Aymerich is a Spanish photographer renowned for her social commitment and documentary work. She began her career in the 1970s, capturing key moments of Spain's democratic transition.

Her artistic approach is characterized by a meticulous attention to the details of everyday life and social struggles, highlighting often overlooked subjects. The artist uses photography to tell powerful and authentic stories, encouraging reflection on social and political realities. Her work is marked by deep human sensitivity and an ability to capture the essence of people and events.

Reprepented by Rociosantacruzart gallery at Paris Photo last November, the artist was interviewed as part of the Elles x Paris Photo program, curated by guest curator Raphaëlle Stopin, highlighting women photographers.

Presentation

Born in Barcelona in 1943, Pilar Aymerich first studied theatre direction at the Escuela de Arte Dramático Adrià Gual, before specializing in photography at Studios Raphael in France. From 1965, she worked as a photographer in London, returning to Barcelona in 1968.

Over the years, she contributed regularly to publications such as Serra d'Or, Destino, Triunfo, La Calle, El País and Fotogramas and, from 1974 onwards, collaborated with the audiovisual sector, notably with Televisión Española.

Her documentary work focused on photographing citizen demonstrations during the Transition, as well as the Catalan Women's Days. Over the course of her career, Pilar Aymerich has received several distinctions, including the Creu de Sant Jordi in 2005, a special mention at the Human Rights Institute Award or the XVI Solidarity Award for the media in 2002, and, in 2021, the National Photography Award, presented by the Spanish Ministry of Culture.

- Text provided by the gallery

Pilar Aymerich, Self-portrait, 1976 - Courtesy of RocioSantaCruz

Pilar Aymerich, Feminist demonstration in Gran Via, Paseo de Gracia, against rape and mistreatment of women. September 1977, 1977/1990 - Courtesy of RocioSantaCruz

Pilar Aymerich, Self-management in prison, 1978/1990 - Courtesy of RocioSantaCruz

Pilar Aymerich, Catalan Women's Conference, 27-30 May 1976. Paraninfo of the University of Barcelona, 1976/1990 - Courtesy of RocioSantaCruz