In February, Madrid once again becomes a hub for cultural discoveries, despite unpredictable weather and the upcoming holidays. For many residents of the capital, this is an opportunity to explore contemporary art, rare films, and unusual exhibitions for free. These events not only broaden horizons but also allow you to feel the pulse of a city that never stops, even for a day.
This year, special attention goes to projects that bring together different generations of artists and audiences. Free events are becoming a magnet for those seeking new experiences and unwilling to settle for monotonous routines. At the center of it all are exhibitions featuring works by celebrated masters and emerging talents, as well as film screenings revealing lesser-known chapters of history.
Contemporary art in Retiro Park
In the heart of Madrid, at Retiro Park, the XXVII Certamen de Dibujo Gregorio Prieto exhibition has opened. Until February 22, the Casa de Vacas cultural center presents 43 works selected from hundreds of entries. The exhibition spans a wide range of styles, from realistic portraits to bold abstractions and conceptual experiments.
A special place is given to the works of the competition winners. The first prize went to Sebastián Bona for his piece exploring the nature of fear and subconscious impulses. The second place was awarded to José Miguel Chico López for an abstract composition reflecting on the impact of technology on humanity. The competition itself was conceived as a way to support the vibrant art of drawing and highlight its relevance in the modern world.
The exhibition is open daily from morning until late evening. For many visitors, this is not only a chance to see new works, but also an opportunity to reflect on how the language of art is changing in the 21st century.
Documentary film about freedom
On February 9 at Casa de América, there will be a screening of the documentary film ‘Operación Guardabarranco: An urgent flight towards freedom… and exile.’ The film tells the story of 222 political prisoners who were exiled to the United States three years ago. Viewers will see not only the chronicle of a diplomatic operation but also hear the personal stories of those involved.
After the screening, there will be a meeting with two protagonists from the film — Samantha Jirón and Irving Larios. Their stories will add emotional depth and offer a new perspective on recent events in Nicaragua. For many, this evening will become not just a cultural event, but a reason to reflect on the price of freedom and human dignity.
Experiments with nature
Opera Gallery is showcasing the exhibition ‘Ecos de Vida’ by artist Cristina Babiloni until February 14. Her works invite you on a journey through imagined landscapes, where ocean depths, volcanic terrains, and fantastic forms merge. The artist employs unconventional materials: burlap, sand, acrylic, cardboard, ceramics, and even methacrylate.
Each painting and sculpture tells a unique story of the relationship between humans and nature. In her new series, the artist explores the cycle of materials, emphasizing the importance of texture, movement, and energy. For contemporary art enthusiasts, this exhibition is a rare opportunity to witness how new artistic worlds are born.
Psychology and Photography
La Casa Encendida is hosting an unusual project, ‘The Fold,’ by Iranian artist Hoda Afshar, running through the end of April. She explores the archival photographs of French psychiatrist Gaëtan Gatian de Clérambault, taken in Morocco at the start of the last century. The images feature women in traditional Islamic dress, while the exhibition raises questions about perspective, control, and the legacy of colonialism.
Afshar works with a historical archive for the first time, exploring how perception of an image shifts depending on context. The display blends various techniques, and the deterioration of old photographs becomes an artistic statement in itself. For visitors, it’s a chance to reflect on who shapes our view of the world—and how.
Mexican cinema on the big screen
On February 12, Fundación Casa de México launches a film series dedicated to director Michel Franco. His works have been recognized at the world’s major film festivals, and he is considered one of the leaders of contemporary Mexican cinema. The program opens with the drama ‘Daniel y Ana’—the story of two siblings whose lives are transformed after tragic events.
Screenings take place in the city center, making them accessible to a wide audience. For many viewers, this is a chance to discover new trends in world cinema and discuss pressing topics that concern not only Mexico but the entire Spanish-speaking world.
In recent weeks, Madrid’s cultural life has noticeably picked up. Looking back at how, in previous Februaries, the capital, Barcelona, and Sevilla impressed with the scale and fresh formats of their events, it’s clear that interest in art and unique happenings keeps growing. The festive and transformative atmosphere is felt in the streets, while festival and exhibition programs are becoming increasingly diverse. More details on how Spain’s three largest cities have rewritten the cultural winter can be found at RUSSPAIN.COM.
In recent years, Madrid has increasingly become a stage for bold art experiments and high-profile premieres. In 2025, the city hosted large-scale exhibitions dedicated to contemporary art and new technologies, as well as national film weeks featuring international directors. Such events not only attract tourists, but also shape a new cultural space where tradition meets innovation. In this context, free events are especially important, as they provide access to art for everyone, regardless of age or social background. Madrid continues to impress, offering residents and visitors an ever richer and more diverse cultural program.
