Los Viejos y Olvidados
A Solo Exhibition by Juan Sergio Aguirre Natera
Saturday 6th June – Saturday 13th June, 2026
Opening Night: Friday 5th June, 6-8pm
This June, Surface presents Los Viejos y Olvidados (The Old and Forgotten), a solo exhibition by Juan Aguirre. ‘Each person represented in Los Viejos y Olvidados has a certain value to offer, a piece of history and a moment of the past.’ Through black and white paintings portraying ordinary people, historical figures, and cultural moments with striking contrast and sensitivity, the artist invites audiences to reflect on the stories and histories that shape cultural identity. Focusing on those remembered and forgotten, the works evoke a world that once existed.
Originally from Guadalajara and now based in Nottingham, Juan is a multidisciplinary artist working with acrylic, ink, sculpture, and mixed media. He has previously exhibited in his country of birth, Mexico, and more recently participated in a group exhibition at the Mall Galleries, London.
Los Viejos y Olvidados explores themes of memory, nostalgia, and identity, bringing attention to lives often overlooked, while offering a perspective on Mexican history that resists dominant, US-centric narratives. His work reinterprets early 20th century Mexico through a monochromatic visual language. To realise this exhibition, he undertook a process of archival research, discovering the work of artists such as Lola Álvarez Bravo and Víctor Casasola. These influences highlight the nuances of a culture striving to be reborn during the 1910 Revolution and its aftermath.
Artist Talk & Walkthrough
Saturday 13th June, 12pm
Juan Aguirre will speak about the ideas behind Los Viejos y Olvidados, from its roots in Mexican history to the personal experiences that shape the work. The session will be informal and open, with time for questions and discussion.
The exhibition takes place in the Main Gallery at Surface, As always, there will be a donations bar with a range of ales from local brewery, Pheasantry. Los Viejos y Olvidados launched with food from SOSU Japanese Takeaway and music from Sketchy Notes.
Free Entry: Everyone Welcome