Subirachs: the evolution of a multifaceted artist

The Enric Monjo Museum in Vilassar de Mar revisits the career of one of the most relevant artists of the second half of the 20th century through the exhibition 'Subirachs: Two-dimensional and three-dimensional creations'. With more than 40 works, this exhibition offers a deep portrait of his artistic evolution and his ability to transcend formats and materials.

The career of Subirachs (Barcelona, 1927-2014) covers several disciplines, from sculpture, painting and drawing to engraving, jewelry and medal design. Training in the workshop of the sculptor Enric Monjo during his youth, Subirachs acquired the technical knowledge that will be the basis of his monumental work. However, the artist quickly distanced himself from the noucentista tradition that initially influenced his style, opening his way to a figurative expressionism that would later evolve into avant-garde abstraction.

'Inici', Josep Maria Subirachs (2006)

One of his best-known milestones is his contribution to the Passion facade of the Sagrada Familia, a work that synthesizes his ability to combine symbolism with architectural monumentality. However, to reduce Subirachs to this icon would be a mistake, as his work is a deep reflection of metaphorical concepts and ideas that go beyond what is perceived at first glance. When he returned to figuration after his abstract stage, he did so without renouncing a personal reinterpretation of reality, adopting a style he himself called "metaphorical figuration".

The exhibition, which opened on December 1 and will be open until February, is curated by Judit Subirachs , doctor in art history and daughter of the artist. This careful selection offers a comprehensive view of Subirachs' work, highlighting his ability to adapt and innovate in both the two-dimensional and three-dimensional fields.

His art was marked by post-war tensions and the need to reinvent artistic languages. With a pioneering vision, Subirachs was not only a key figure in Catalan art, but also contributed to establishing dialogues with the international art scene.

'Ecuestre', Josep Maria Subirachs (1977)