An artistic legacy rescued from oblivion
Today, the Banyoles Art Centre has opened its doors to the public, marking a milestone in the cultural life of this Catalan city. The inauguration of the museum, which houses an impressive collection of 76 works donated by collector Jordi Gimferrer, represents the culmination of a dream that began over six decades ago.
Jordi Gimferrer, born in 1933 in Banyoles, has dedicated his life to gathering a vast collection that includes masterpieces by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, and Rembrandt. This collection is not only a testament to his passion for art but also an invaluable gift to the local community.
The new centre is located in the old town of Banyoles and aims to become a reference point for the plastic and visual arts. From its opening until April 6, visitors will be able to enjoy not only the exhibited works but also the cultural atmosphere surrounding this new space.
Over the years, Gimferrer has lent pieces to prestigious international museums such as the Guggenheim and the Louvre. However, his greatest wish has always been to share his collection with his hometown. In 2022, he decided to donate his artistic fund to the City Council on the condition that it be exhibited within three years.
Gimferrer's artistic journey began in his childhood when he exchanged drawings for school notes. His passion for art led him to study at renowned academies and travel across Europe while working in the family textile industry. This journey allowed him to meet numerous artists and acquire significant works that are now part of the museum.
Among the exhibited jewels is a portrait of composer Enric Morera, considered the first work created by Picasso at Els Quatre Gats. Also notable is 'Els Putrefactes' by Salvador Dalí and representative engravings of the Dau al Set movement. The variety ranges from African art to pre-Columbian, thus reflecting the cultural diversity that characterises Gimferrer as a collector.
During the inauguration, both Mayor Miquel Noguer and Councillor Sònia Hernández expressed their gratitude to Gimferrer for culturally enriching Banyoles. Hernández emphasised how such initiatives are essential to combat negative discourses through the promotion of art.
As visitors begin to explore this new cultural space, it is clear that the Banyoles Art Centre will not only fill an artistic void in Banyoles but will also project a positive image towards Europe and beyond.
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