MAS, Sergi

Sergi Mas Balaguer (Barcelona, October 30, 1930 - March 31, 2026) was a prominent Catalan-born sculptor, ceramicist, painter, printmaker, and writer who developed practically his entire life and artistic career in the Principality of Andorra, becoming a pivotal figure in Andorran culture and ethnography of the 20th and 21st centuries. He was born into a family with a strong artisan tradition (his grandfather was a carpenter and his father a cabinetmaker). He trained at the prestigious Escola d'Arts i Oficios de la Llotja in Barcelona and expanded his knowledge by collaborating with established sculptors such as Frederic Marès, Joaquim Ros, and Vicenç Navarro. Between 1951 and 1955, he worked at the Poble Espanyol in Montjuïc, where he perfected the techniques of ceramics, printmaking, and stamping. He arrived in the Principality in 1957 (initially on a temporary basis to perform wood-carving work) and decided to settle permanently in Aixovall (Sant Julià de Lòria). There he established his studio and deeply integrated into Andorran society, acting as a living bridge between rural Pyrenean tradition and modernity. He was a founding member of the Cercle de les Arts i les Lletres in 1969. His extensive labor in preserving and enriching Andorran artistic heritage was honored on multiple occasions, notably receiving the Order of Charlemagne in the rank of Commander from the Government of Andorra. He passed away on March 31, 2026, at the age of 95. Sergi Mas's work stands out for its multifaceted versatility and deep roots in popular culture, Pyrenean mythology, and local ethnography. He handled wood, clay, stone, and metals with great skill. Among his most emblematic contributions stand out: The reproduction of Our Lady of Meritxell (1972): Following the tragic fire that destroyed the original sanctuary, Mas crafted the image of Andorra's patron saint venerated by the country today, becoming a fundamental spiritual and identity symbol; He designed and sculpted much of the historical furniture decorating the seat of the General Council of Andorra (Parliament) and the Tribunal de Corts; Author of numerous carvings and reliefs scattered throughout Andorran territory (such as the images linked to the sanctuaries of Canòlich and various monumental works in public spaces, highlighting pieces like Arnaldeta de Caboet).