Músiques i Art al Botànic

Cullera is set for a vibrant cultural gathering this May as Músiques i Art al Botànic brings together live blues, visual art, food and nature for a one-of-a-kind daytime event in the beautiful surroundings of Botànic Cullera – Parc per la Natura. Taking place on 10 May, this open-air celebration promises a full day of music, creativity and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere from morning through to the afternoon.

Blending live performance with artistic expression, the event offers a refreshing alternative to the usual late-night concert experience. Instead of dark clubs and midnight starts, this is all about sunshine, fresh air, great sounds and good company in one of Cullera’s most picturesque settings.

Leading the musical side of the day are Danny Boy & Pablo Sanpa Blues Band, bringing raw energy, soul and timeless groove to the stage. Known for their passion for authentic blues sounds, the group are expected to deliver a set packed with smoky vocals, expressive guitar work and the kind of rhythm that gets feet moving from the very first note. Whether you’re a lifelong blues devotee or simply love great live music, this promises to be one of those performances that hits straight from the heart.

But Músiques i Art al Botànic is far more than a concert. The event also features the opening of the photography exhibition “Philamonjaro – My Journey With the Blues”, adding a rich visual dimension to the day. Launching at 11:00, the exhibition looks set to offer an intimate and evocative glimpse into the spirit, people and culture surrounding blues music. Through the lens of Philamonjaro, visitors can expect images full of character, atmosphere and stories from the road.

We caught up with Phil, a regular contributor to The Music Mole earlier this week:

Opening Sunday May 10th I will be exhibiting thirty framed, black and white photos of blues artists. All photographed since I moved here to Valencia four and a half years ago. One part local area blues artists and one part touring blues artists from the states. 

Originally from Chicago, I have a long, journeyed love for the blues starting when I saw Muddy Waters perform at my high school when I was 14 years old. I always knew that blues music from the states was popular throughout Europe. Now that I'm experiencing firsthand, I have a deeper affection for the music. And I have a special appreciation for Spanish blues musicians. I feel like I am discovering a new layer of the blues. A sort of full circle for me. Blues in the land where guitar was invented. Regardless of the instrument, I find these musicians masters.

In this collection I have included Danny Boy Sanchez, Maria Carbonell, John Primer, Billy Branch and other personal favorites. My intention is to expand this collection to 100 photos digging deeper into my archives from both here and in the states. Then mount subsequent versions of this exhibit around the area. Something tells me that I have only scratched the surface of local blues talent here. I find this an important visual story to tell. 

The venue itself only adds to the appeal. Botànic Cullera, surrounded by greenery and designed as a space connected to nature, provides the perfect backdrop for an event centred on creativity and community. It’s the ideal place to spend a spring Saturday soaking up music and art in a relaxed environment.

Doors open at 10:00, giving visitors plenty of time to explore the grounds before the exhibition inauguration and the midday concert. Then, after the music, the good vibes continue with a paella gathering at 14:30, making this not just an event, but a full social experience.

With live blues, a compelling photography showcase, daytime energy and a stunning natural location, Músiques i Art al Botànic looks set to be one of the most charming and original dates on the Cullera calendar this spring. Forget staying out late — this is how to do culture in the sunshine.

For tickets and more information: Músiques i Art al Botànic