From Gaudi to Picasso: Catalan Modernism

The years between 1880 and 1910 mark one of the most important and intense phases in Catalonia’s culture. New aesthetic, artistic and literary currents emerged that, in originality and scope, were comparable to movements such as romanticism, 19th-century naturalism or the art of the ‘novecento’.
It was the beginning of ‘Modernism’, that creative vein which would find expression in the varied ambits of literature, architecture, painting, sculpture, jewellery making and ceramics, graphic art, metalworking and all sorts of decorative arts. Characterised by an ability to unite modern spirit and tradition, the movement went beyond what was learned and elitist, expanding into a general phenomenon. Works both noble and humble were crafted in its name, and highly industrialised and serial production processes born of its influence.

Venice, Island of San Giorgio Maggiore
1 September – 4 November 1991

Information
Institute of Art History
Island of San Giorgio Maggiore – 30124 Venice
tel. +39 041 2710230
fax +39 041 5205842
e-mail: arte@cini.it

in collaboration with the Generalitatt Catalunya Department de Cultura and Olivetti