Artigas. The Man of Fire
CX Catalunya Caixa tells us about the works of one of the main faces behind contemporary ceramics.
Flames and smoke. A furnace and wood to keep it going. These were the tools that Josep Llorens Artigas used, the man who revolutionised Western ceramic art and who has become one of the most prominent names of 20th-century ceramics.
The flames and smoke were crucial to the quality of Artigas’ works. He believed his works were eternal because they were created on a potter’s wheel as they had been in all civilisations: “They have been, are and will be”.
His obsession was searching for quality enamel. His determination was such that Artigas never used the same enamel composition to ensure that each piece was unique.
“Artigas. The Man of Fire“ brings us closer to his work in a pioneering exhibition of ceramics in CX La Pedrera. Through more than 150 pieces that cover his long career we find out a little more about the man of fire. A man of Noucentista spirit who restored the ancient craft of potter’s wheel ceramics and placed it on the level of great Oriental ceramics.
In addition to his extensive work, throughout his career Artigas worked with major avant-garde artists such as Raoul Dufy, Eudald Serra, Àngel Ferrant, Geroges Braque and Miró, with whom he became close friends and collaborated on nearly 500 works. The exhibition showcases 65 of his famous collaborations.
The exhibition can be seen in CX La Pedrera until September 2.
Artigas. The Man of Fire
Exhibition Rooms in La Pedrera / Passeig de Gràcia, 92
April 17—September 2
Monday–Sunday, 10:00–20:00