Rojales’ traditional Ribbon Race. Credit: Ayuntamiento de Rojales.
Rojales is combining art and tradition this autumn, with a major watercolour exhibition under way at the Cuevas del Rodeo before residents of all ages are invited to get on their bikes for the traditional Ribbon Race in October.
The two events offer very different ways to enjoy the municipality, from 50 works by artist Gonzalo de Amarante Costa to a light-hearted cycling tradition at Malecon del Soto.
Fifty watercolours go on display at Rojales’ historic Cuevas del Rodeo
Art lovers have until Sunday, September 27 to visit a new exhibition bringing 50 watercolours by artist Gonzalo de Amarante Costa to Rojales.
The exhibition, simply titled 50 Watercolours, is being held at Sala Mengolero in the Cuevas del Rodeo, one of the municipality’s established cultural and exhibition spaces.
The show opened on September 5 and gives visitors several weeks to see the collection, making it an easy addition to a visit to the caves during September.
Watercolour is known for its use of transparent layers of pigment, allowing artists to build colour while retaining the brightness of the paper beneath. The technique can produce everything from delicate washes to much stronger areas of colour and detail.
Amarante Costa’s exhibition brings together 50 individual works, giving visitors the opportunity to see a substantial selection of his work in one place.
The setting adds another reason to visit. The Cuevas del Rodeo are a collection of traditional cave houses in Rojales that are now closely associated with local artists, craftspeople and cultural events.
The exhibition continues at Sala Mengolero until September 27, when it is scheduled to close at 5:00 PM.
Traditional Rojales Ribbon Race challenges cyclists to test their balance and accuracy
Rojales residents of all ages are being invited to get on their bikes for the traditional Ribbon Race at Malecon del Soto on Friday, October 9.
Starting at 6:30 PM, the event is open to everyone of any age and is more a test of balance and accuracy than a conventional bicycle race.
Riders cycle beneath a row of ribbons suspended overhead and try to collect one as they pass, usually by catching the small ring or loop attached to it.
The challenge is to grab the ribbon while keeping the bicycle moving, with missed attempts adding to the fun for spectators.
Anyone wishing to participate must register beforehand at the information office in Rojales Town Hall. Registration remains open until Friday, October 2, and the Town Hall will provide a ribbon free of charge for each participant.
Those taking part in collecting the ribbons should arrive at Malecon del Soto half an hour before the 6:30 PM start.
Young children will need to bring their own bicycles, while bikes will be provided for older participants, meaning adults can join the traditional Rojales event without having to bring a bicycle from home.