Inside Art in Barcelona…

There’s no shortage of art to see in Barcelona, that’s for sure, and most of it is free. There’s Lichtenstein’s sculpture on the waterfront and Gaudí’s iconic blue lizard in Park Güell, not to mention, what was that building again? Ah yes, the Sagrada Familia.

What do you do in the height of winter, however? When the temperature drops and you find yourself shivering beneath all those festive lights and outdoor art displays?

Head for an indoor exhibition.

Maillol Exhibition, Barcelona

Until 31st January 2010, Caixa Catalunya is hosting an exhibition on Maillol, another Catalan artist. There are several great things about this:

1) It’s free

2) It’s indoors

3) It’s inside the Casa Pedrera – a striking, fantasy house designed by Gaudí himself

4) Maillol’s work is well worth seeing

La Casa Pedrera

Otherwise known as Casa Milà, Gaudí designed La Casa Pedrera for a wealthy couple in the early twentieth century. Although the outside of the building grabs attention, the spiralling stairs and ceilings on the inside are also impressive.

Maillol’s Art

Maillol travelled to Paris, dabbled with painting and tapestry before finding his real passion, sculpture. Here’s a taste of what’s on offer:

Then this portrait of artist Renoir:

And plenty involving Maillon’s muse, Dina Vierny:

Barcelona Art, Maillol Exhibition

This art exhibition is open Monday to Sunday from 10.00 a.m until 8.00 p.m until 31st January. It is closed on 25th & 26th December and for the 1st and 6th January. Entry is free, as are guided tours although they only take place in Catalan and Spanish.

NB = you will need to pay to visit Gaudí’s famous sculptures on the rooftop of the Casa Pedrera and in winter this closes at 6 p.m. (it’s dark by then.)