The Museum of Artistic Reproductions of Bilbao has inaugurated the space «Ametsa eta Argia, Dream and Light», with works by the artist Xabier Goiko in which the Williams brothers are the protagonists.
Alongside the painter were Leixuri Arrizabalaga, deputy for Basque, Culture and Sports of the Provincial Council of Bizkaia; Gonzalo Olabarria, councilor for Governance and Culture of the City Council of Bilbao; Sorkunde Aiarza, director of the Basque institution; Jon Ruigomez, second vice president of the Athletic Club; and Asier Arrate, director of the Athletic Club Museum.
The main work, a large format of 182cm x 300cm, made in oil on canvas, is titled «The Williams» and narrates the life journey of the Williams brothers and their mother, María Arthuer, highlighting sacrifice and perseverance.
«Blending landscapes of Africa and Euskal Herria, the painting reflects the richness of a multicultural identity. In it, Iñaki and Niko are a symbol of how integration and mutual respect can enrich a community, becoming references for future generations,» according to Goiko.
The importance of the role of the mother, María Arthuer, in the journey of the Williams brothers and her presence in the works presented, are some of the reasons that led the Museum of Reproductions of Bilbao to organize this exhibition.
The Basque institution currently has the temporary exhibition «AMA», a display that speaks of motherhood and that arises from the memories of daughters/sons; a concept that fits perfectly with Goiko’s paintings. In addition, themes present in the paintings such as multiculturalism are fundamental for the Basque institution in all the activities it organizes.
The painting highlights how sports and art can act as engines of social transformation. By connecting viewers with the story of the Williams, the painting invites reflection on the capacity of collective effort to overcome adversities and generate a positive change in society.
In addition to «The Williams», the exhibition consists of five other works, among which «Heroine» stands out, representing the concept of how we face our fears and overcome them. All these works are part of the exhibition «Ametsa eta Argia, Dream and Light».
This is not the first time Xabier Goiko has been inspired by footballers. The first work he did about them came at the request of Iñaki Williams’ wife, Patricia Morales, as a desire to surprise him with a unique and personalized painting. After delivering the work to his studio, Iñaki was amazed by the work.
During a conversation, he became interested in Goiko’s creations and the idea of creating a much more special, unique, and symbolic work that also included his brother Nico arose. The artist proposed the idea of creating a work that not only told his story, but also acted as a bridge between his sporting legacy and the universal values he represents.
The result is a painting that «transcends the personal realm to become a historical testimony of overcoming and diversity, elements that resonate deeply in Bilbao society.»
A WORK THAT UNITES
Xabier Goiko wants the painting to connect directly with the rojiblanca community, acting as an emotional bridge between the history of the Athletic Club and the transformative present represented by the Williams brothers.
In Goiko’s words, «The Williams» is not just a painting, it is a tool that invites viewers to identify parallels between their own stories and the narrative of overcoming that it represents. «By celebrating diversity and effort, the painting promotes universal values that are essential for the development of a cohesive and resilient society. This work positions painting as a means to document and interpret social and cultural changes, reaffirming its role in creating a collective memory,» he said.
It is a visual narrative that connects art, sports, and Basque identity. Its exhibition at the Museum of Reproductions will offer the public a unique opportunity to reflect on aspects such as diversity. «I hope this work inspires viewers to dream, to overcome barriers, and to build a future where differences are celebrated as an integral part of our shared humanity,» commented Goiko.
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