The Espai Thyssen in Sant Feliu de Guíxols opens a major exhibition honoring Modest Cuixart, showcasing 54 works, many unseen for decades. This event marks a significant tribute to the Catalan artist's legacy.
Today marks the opening of a pivotal exhibition at the Espai Thyssen in Sant Feliu de Guíxols, celebrating the centenary of renowned Catalan artist Modest Cuixart. The show, titled Vincles, features an impressive collection of 54 artworks, including 33 pieces by Cuixart himself, many of which have not been displayed for over thirty years.
The exhibition juxtaposes Cuixart’s creations with works from the esteemed Carmen Thyssen collection, highlighting significant figures in Catalan painting from the 19th and 20th centuries. This innovative approach aims to revive interest in Cuixart’s art while fostering dialogue between his pieces and those of other notable artists such as Modest Urgell, Eliseu Meifrèn, and Ramon Martí i Alsina.
The curator of the exhibition, Pilar Giró, emphasized the importance of rediscovering these long-forgotten works. “This exhibit allows us to bring back to light pieces that deserve recognition,” she stated during a press preview. Among the highlights are iconic paintings like Paleta de pintor (1952) and Morfología ondulante (1947), both previously held in storage at museums.
The selection spans from 1942 until Cuixart’s passing in 2007, showcasing his evolution as an artist within the context of post-war Catalonia. The collaboration between Giró and Cuixart was profound; she recalls him advising her during her studies: “Never seek univocity but unity within diversity.” This philosophy is evident throughout the exhibition.
A notable feature is how certain works resonate with each other thematically and visually. For instance, Urgell’s romantic marine scene titled Playa interacts beautifully with Cuixart’s dreamlike piece, El Pescador de lunas. Such connections enrich viewers’ understanding of both artists’ intentions.
This homage comes at a time when interest in modernist movements is resurging globally. Historical parallels can be drawn to similar exhibitions that have successfully revived interest in lesser-known artists from past decades, demonstrating how art can transcend time and continue to inspire new generations.
The exhibition will run until October 18, providing ample opportunity for visitors to engage with this unique artistic dialogue. It concludes with a collaborative piece created by Giró and Cuixart—a book that serves as both an artistic statement and a personal tribute.
This summer, Espai Thyssen will also host six additional exhibitions featuring various contemporary artists including sculptor Samuel Salcedo and photographer Eulàlia Ramon. These events aim to further enrich cultural offerings in Sant Feliu de Guíxols.
If you’re interested in experiencing this remarkable showcase of Modest Cuixart’s work alongside other celebrated artists, visit Espai Thyssen before October 18. The venue is easily accessible via public transport or by car with parking available nearby.
