Barcelona's architectural gem Casa Batlló is set to present its fourth annual façade mapping spectacle, featuring acclaimed multimedia artist Quayola. The upcoming exhibition, titled "Arborescent," will transform the UNESCO World Heritage site's modernist façade into a dynamic canvas celebrating the intersection of nature, technology, and architectural heritage.
Images L-R: Portrait of Quayola; Rendering of 'Arborescent'. Images courtesy Quayola Studio; Refik Anadol, 'Living Architecture' 2023, Casa Batlló. Image credit Claudia Maurino.
Following successful collaborations with digital artists Refik Anadol and Sofía Crespo, Casa Batlló continues its innovative artistic program "The Heritage of Tomorrow" by inviting Quayola to reimagine Gaudí's masterpiece. The Italian artist, renowned for his computational interpretations of classical art and natural phenomena, will present a monumental projection mapping that explores the growth patterns of various tree species.
The installation promises to be a harmonious blend of Gaudí's nature-inspired architecture and Quayola's algorithmic artistry. Through minimalist visualizations and a vibrant color palette, "Arborescent" will respond to the building's unique architectural elements, accompanied by an original soundtrack composed by the artist himself.
Casa Batlló CEO Gary Gautier emphasizes the natural synergy between Quayola's work and Gaudí's vision: "Quayola's ability to merge classical and contemporary elements, coupled with his distinctive approach to decoding natural forms, makes him an ideal artist to interpret our façade's rich symbolism."
The event, which has become one of Barcelona's most anticipated public art installations, will be presented in partnership with Integrated Systems Europe (ISE), the world's leading audiovisual systems fair. Last year's edition attracted over 95,000 visitors, establishing the mapping as a major cultural event in Barcelona's artistic calendar.
Quayola, whose work has been featured in prestigious institutions including the V&A Museum in London and the National Art Center in Tokyo, expresses enthusiasm about the project: "Working with an iconic symbol like Casa Batlló is a unique opportunity to explore new relationships with our visual heritage. Gaudí's work reinforces the endless potential of nature as an artistic inspiration."
Casa Batlló
The mapping continues Casa Batlló's commitment to innovative cultural experiences. Since 2021, the monument has enhanced its visitor experience through cutting-edge technology and immersive installations, while maintaining its dedication to preservation and sustainability. The institution has invested over 20 million euros in restoration projects and holds the Biosphere certification for its sustainable practices.
Arborescent" Façade Mapping by Quayola
Dates: February 1-2, 2025
Time: Shows every 30 minutes from 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Location: Casa Batlló, Passeig de Gràcia 43, Barcelona
Admission: Free public event
Photos by Casa Batlló
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