Charlie Smits Debuts First Solo Exhibition in Madrid

The artist's journey began with a deep-seated obsession for creation. Smits recalls a childhood defined by solitude and imagination, stating, "nunca he tenido una infancia de muchos amigos y ocio" (I never had a childhood with many friends and leisure). He found joy in isolation, explaining, "me encanta estar solo, de pequeño me encerraba en mi habitación e iba haciendo cosas" (I love being alone, as a child I locked myself in my room and kept doing things), such as drawing or dressing his Polly Pockets.

At 18, Smits moved to Madrid to study Illustration, but the formal structure did not align with his vision. He realized it was not what he wanted to do, especially as he began receiving small commissions to paint clothing. He made the difficult decision to leave the course.

His mother offered a stark choice regarding his future. Smits recounted the conversation: "Hablé con mi madre, le dije: ‘Oye, no quiero hacer esto. Me quiero dedicar al arte, pero no desde el mundo de la ilustración’. Mi madre me contestó: ‘Vale, pero si te sales ya no te voy a pagar el curso ni nada, ya te buscas tú la vida’" (I talked to my mother, I told her: 'Hey, I don't want to do this. I want to dedicate myself to art, but not from the world of illustration.' My mother replied: 'Okay, but if you drop out I'm not going to pay for the course or anything, you'll have to fend for yourself').

Despite the pressure, Smits committed to his path. By 2018 and 2019, he began to realize that he could indeed make a living from his art.

In the years following his decision, Smits confirmed his viability as an artist. A significant early milestone occurred in February 2023 when he presented a clothing collection featuring his drawings at the Semana de la Moda de Madrid (Madrid Fashion Week). His designs were subsequently worn by notable figures such as Putochinomaricón and Luna Ki.

Smits has since expanded his reach into the commercial and music sectors. His resume now includes collaborations with the global retail giant Zara. Additionally, he has utilized his visual style for prominent musical talents.

He has designed album covers for several artists, including:

• Samantha Hudson
• Aitana
• Natalia Lacunza

His work has also gained international attention, having been featured in collective exhibitions in Berlin. These successes validate his mother's conditional support and his own persistence.

The current exhibition at Sala Ohm represents the most authentic version of Smits' creativity. He describes this collection as his "Atlántida de luces y colores" (Atlantis of lights and colors). The showcase is the culmination of his dedication to his personal vision.

Smits emphasizes the importance of fidelity to one's own desires. He believes that staying true to oneself ensures that one never truly loses. This philosophy has guided his transition from a solitary child to a public artist.

At 26 years old, Smits has successfully brought his internal world into the external reality. The exhibition allows the public to witness the cosmos he carries within, bridging the gap between his private obsession and public appreciation.