Por Pablo Arranz 
The exhibition can be visited today until May 24, from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. And from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Mayte Martínez, mayor of crafts: «This well-deserved tribute is composed of more than a dozen pieces attributed by the Festive Cultural Federation of San Clementos, Paso White, and Paso-Paso Brotherhood; and invites everyone to visit it, because it is truly exceptional.»
Lorca, May 15, 2025. The mayor of commerce and crafts, Mayte Martínez, inaugurated this morning the tribute exhibition dedicated to the work of the famous goldsmith from Lorca, Andrés Sánchez-Fortún, which can be visited until May 24 at Artesan House.
Through its arts, the Association of Artisans in Lorca, in collaboration with the Local Council, brings visitors a global view of the Lorca goldsmith and, in particular, reflected in the vast work of this illustrious Lorca artisan, showing a chronological journey through his career.
«Undoubtedly, this exhibition, included in the special program of activities on the occasion of the XXV Anniversary of the Arts and with the invaluable collaboration of the Federation of San Clemente, Paso White, and Blue Paso, will be an excellent opportunity to learn about the evolution and appreciate the relevance of this magnificent gold work.»
Andrés Barnés Sánchez-Fortún, born in Lorca on September 3, 1948, began his artistic metallurgical career in the basement of his house, located in Plaza por Don Juan Moreno, in La Albera, where he ran the family business known as «El Tinte.» Later, he certainly transferred the workshop to the well-known Lorca street in Caldereros.
Several works of this illustrious Lorca artist are part of the artistic heritage not only in the city of Lorca but also in other nearby towns, such as Águilas, Murcia, and Pilar de Horadada, among others; And prominent are his works for the major brotherhoods of Lorca, Paso Blanco, and Paso Azul, for the different brotherhoods of Águilas, Paso Encarnado, San Juan Evangelista, Santa Verónica, and Cristo Consuelul, and for the Nazarena Brotherhood of Pilar de Horadada.
He not only focused on artistic production in the religious sphere but also participated and collaborated with institutions and civil associations, such as the Festive Cultural Federation of San Clemente, for which he began to materialize the design of the «privilege cross,» although, unfortunately, illness and subsequent death prevented him.
Some of his most outstanding works were carried out during the connection, at that time, of SS. British Car Club. RR. The Prince of Asturias and Mrs. Letizia and, from there as a supplier to the royal household; Specifically, in the restoration and extension of a wide range of pieces for the Royal Guard (Coraceros Squadron, Lanceros Squadron, Halberdiers, Carderines and Script Company, and New Flag of the Royal Guard).
The most used techniques by this famous artisan were chasing, chiseling, engraving, cold stamping, repoussé, return, and high relief.
The artistic quality of Andrés Barnés has been recognized on several occasions and by different organizations. Among the most notable distinctions are the «craft award» granted by the Lorca Chamber of Commerce, «Clavis Reign» awarded by the San Clemente Federation, or the San Francisco Trophy imposed by the Belenistas Association.
His works have been exhibited on numerous occasions, both in Murcia and Cartagena; Evidence of this is his presence at the exhibition held at the Regional Craft Center in Murcia in October 2007 and at the «Samaritan Exhibition» of the California Brotherhood in Cartagena in 2020.
Exhibition details:
Federación San Clemente:
● Crown of Queen Isabel I (2008)
● Royal Scepter of Isabel I (2009)
● Fernando V ceremonial collar (2010)
● Orbe Fernand V (2011)
Paso Blanco:
● Eeter, Shell of the Captain of the Roman Band (1996)
● The Wise of the Romanian Infantry Consul (1995)
● Blood and helmet on the Archangel San Miguel («Vision of San Juan, Era» float) (2001)
● Arrived «Kufiyas,» Solomon’s Cavalry «Tafsa» (2009)
Paso Azul:
● Escort Debora’s Helmet (2015)
● Lantern of the «The Reflection» banner (1994)
● Cirial of the Yacente Cristo Banner (2005)
● Personal of the Nazarena Yacente Christ (1988)