I think I came to admire him, even before knowing. He had seen some of his work and had heard on the radio bulletin, demanding the reopening of the museum in Aguilar de Campo. The year was 2003 and then I found a good man. I later discovered that Ursicinus Martinez Ursi, for friends, was much more than that.
The first time I spoke with him was to write an article. I was, how could it be otherwise in his studio, working as usual. Carved a rare material on it: alabaster. Was putting the finishing touches to the silhouette of the Virgin on a cluster of clouds.
I was impressed by his simplicity, his kindness, his eyes alert, full of life, strength ... I think that once connected. I remember I stole all afternoon. We sat next to his desk surrounded by chisels and chisel, the smell of sawdust and wood, which is confusing at times with the aroma of black snuff rolling. He offered me one and so, as if she knew of life, began to reel off pieces of her story of her childhood in Villabellaco of his youth in the mine, his travels, his family, friends ... I told thousands of anecdotes, such as the ticket 100 pesetas, which later hear him tell hundreds of times.
next day took me to his museum, but before I opened the door of his house, he offered me coffee and introduced me to his wife, Angela. A discreet woman, kind, of course, your support, your support in the shadow ...
Entering the museum Ursi, who was then closed, was for me to realize something as many times desired. It was as if they came into a world full of fantasy, imagination ... In a utopian world, where old elms, sick, recovered life.
suppose that anyone who has visited the museum will have their favorite piece. The truth is that it is very difficult to choose, but my eyes were fixed from the first moment in its knotted trunk. Almost made me believe, I had no mystery, who planted trees while still green and growing gave them the right way, then it was only a matter of watering, caring and hope. Ursi, so, you loved to joke, I think I enjoyed hearing people's comments, noting he was stunned by its twisted trees, their "jokes" as he called them.
After that first contact I have visited the museum over two dozen times and always find something new, surprising. Ursi I am convinced that was a true genius, and as such left a bit of himself in each of his works. I still have that comfort, because we have made so many conversations going slopes, so many memories, so many projects ... I feel I owe something. I know, yes, every time you cross the threshold of the museum, I feel there, as always, with his hands hardened by work, rolling his snuff and his everlasting smile. Farewell, friend, farewell, Ursi.
LISTEN TO THE STORY ISSUED AGUILAR RADIO FM in 2004 (if you like ;-)
Note: I wrote this text Carrión newspaper die shortly Ursi (2007), was never published. The report, aired on Radio FM Aguilar in 2004, if I remember correctly, it was with the help of Carlos. Much has happened since then, Ursi, is gone, own work, and all his legacy. If you approach Aguilar de Campo, do not forget to visit the museum . Now it is open.
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