With just over a month until the start of the patron saint festivals in Arrigorriaga, the official announcement image has been revealed. Raúl López Martín, a graphic designer and illustrator, has won the design competition for the poster titled ‘Festak’, which was selected from a total of 24 entries. The artwork aims to capture the essence of Arrigorriaga and its festive spirit.
Raúl López Martín, born in Barakaldo 55 years ago and now residing in Estella (Navarre), is a graphic designer and illustrator. Although this is his first time entering the Arrigorriaga festival contest, he has extensive experience in similar competitions, having won over 200 first prizes across Spain, along with accolades in painting and murals.
His winning piece, ‘Festak’, features a couple of txistu players, a boy and a girl, set against a blue background that evokes the tradition and festive atmosphere that fills the municipality during the ‘Madalenak’ celebrations. The artist intended to create an image that is representative and with which the local residents can identify.
The graphic artist fondly recalls winning the award for the San Fermín festival poster in 2023. He has also created designs for the Aste Nagusia of Bilbao, the Bilbao and Donostia Carnivals, and various festivals, including the Molins de Rei horror film festival, among many others.
This year, Raúl López Martín plans to visit the Arrigorriaga festivals for the first time. "It would be very special for me," he stated, expressing his hope that the ‘Madalenak’ will be celebrated with respect, "because it is possible to enjoy oneself while also allowing others to enjoy the festivities".
