Around the beach village of Benagil there are unusual rock formations that have inspired local artist, Sarina Van der Poel, to create an extraordinary triptych entitled ‘Prodigal’.
The caves have recently been featured in a UK national newspaper as one of the world’s ‘best natural wonders’.
Sarina’s paintings, on display at Galeria Côrte-Real in Paderne, reflect her talent as a modern, interpretive artist and her knowledge of the Algarve where she was born in 1986.
Studying Fine Art at Lisbon University from 2004 to 2008, she returned to the Algarve where she currently lives and works. She is one of more than 30 international artists whose paintings, sculptures and ceramic pieces are displayed at the gallery.
Located in a traditional quinta in the countryside near Paderne, this rural area is much different from the Algarve’s coastal strip and, like the beautiful gallery, it is worthy of a visit.
Of equal interest, the coastal views, headlands and sandstone cliffs at Benagil are spectacular.
A one-hour boat trip from the beach includes a visit to as many as 20 incredible caves eroded by the sea and weather into weird and wonderful forms.
The short voyage is a ‘must do’ activity when staying in the Algarve.
Galeria Côrte-Real is signposted from Boliqueime, Ferreiras and Paderne.
It is open Thursday to Sunday, from 11am to 5pm. You can also visit Corte Real’s pop-up gallery at estate agents Fine & Country in Carvoeiro, which is not far from the Benagil area.
912 737 762 | www.corterealarte.com
By Natasha Donn.
Photo: The triptych, ‘Prodigal’ displayed at Côrte Real .
