Art is in the air

You can’t get away from it – art is everywhere in Barcelona. From architecture, to lamp posts, from parks to street sculpture; it is just part of the life.

Barcelona being an old city has buildings dating back several hundred years, and these of course are majestic and ornate, but the buildings from the 21st century, especially the Modernist period, are the ones that dominate the streets. There are carved cherubs, stone flowers, ornate iron work, sculpted columns, spiral staircases and tile work. Gaudi was not the only architect to leave his mark on Barcelona - he was just the most extreme with his free-flowing style.

Modern buildings too, in many cases, spurn the idea of flat walls or unimaginative roof lines. An unusual balcony, a curved wall, a glass panel … there is often something a bit different.

The streets are also used as open air galleries and exhibition spaces. It is a lovely way to interact with the artwork. The works are appreciated by the tourists and locals alike and I think it makes for an interesting environment to be able to sit in the shadow of a sculpture and eat lunch or have a coffee, or walk past them as you go to and from work.

There is a new exhibition in Plaza Real starting today right outside our tango room. It is recycled 'rubbish' made into statues - much like the 1000 or so chinese soldiers all standing in order. I'll include a picture soon.

Even the graffiti is very good quality and more artistic than just names and writing.