Apeles Mestres

Born in Barcelona on October 28, 1854, Apel·les Mestres was a Catalan writer, graphic artist, illustrator, and musician. He became known for moving easily between words and images, creating poems, plays, songs, and illustrated books that gave his work a distinct, playful character.

Much of his reputation rests on that rare mix of talents: he was not only an author but also an accomplished visual storyteller. His illustrations and literary work appeared in the rich cultural world of late 19th- and early 20th-century Barcelona, and he remains closely associated with Catalan modern artistic life.

Mestres died in Barcelona on July 19, 1936. Today he is remembered as a versatile creative figure whose career crossed literature, music, and art, making him an especially interesting author for listeners who enjoy writers with a strong visual imagination.