La CaixaForum – Art & Architecture

If, like me, you really enjoy a good art exhibition and really enjoy interesting architecture then check out the CaixaForum, you’ll get to enjoy both.

The building, housing five exhibition spaces, a kids’ art workshop, 350 seat auditorium, café-restaurant and gifts and books shop, is a former state-of- the-art textiles factory.

Based on a romantic re-invention of a medieval castle, and informed by a Utopian desire to provide an inspiring and safe working environment for its workers, when opened in 1912 local people refused to believe the building was a factory.

It only served as a factory for eight years. In 1940 the abandoned building was taken over by Franco’s police as a stables and garage. The current complex opened in 2002.

Take the lift to the roof for an closeup look at the decorative brick, tile and ironwork.

They have a pretty good permanent collection – featuring works by artists such as Joseph Beuys, Sol Lewitt (who produced the permanent work you’ll see on the wall in the entrance) and Richard Long.

They host some some excellent exhibitions here. The current show, which runs until January 2011, is an excellent survey of recent work by Mallorquin artist Miquel Barceló. Highly recommended

The venue also promotes a lively world music programme in the piazza during the summer months.

I often visit the shop for quirky gifts, art magazines and books.

And, when done with wandering this inspired and inspiring building, there’s a café-restaurant which serves drinks, snacks and full blown meals.

Details about this spot (Show on map)
La CaixaForum | Art & culture, Coffee & tea, Music, Snacks, Festivals & events
Avenida Marquès de Comillas 6-8 | Montjuich | +34934768600
Mon – Fri & Sun 10:00 – 20:00, Sat 10:00 – 22:00