Hola! A recent trip to Barcelona left me in complete awe and unprepared for the artistic depth of that city. We barely scratched the surface with some explorations of historic architecture and popular museums. After five days I left feeling inspired, humbled, and with great respect for the proud Catalonian people living there today and for the gifted visionaries of the past who have left their artistic contributions all over the city.
The Color. Is there a bluer blue than that of the Mediterranean Sea? I don't think so. The saturation of the color, the juxtaposition of the beach against the skyline dotted with ancient castle ruins along the Costa Brava, and the warm welcoming kiss of the Spanish sun gave me complete contentment and total appreciation for this location where big city meets fabulous beach. It is the perfect combination. I am inspired to paint. And inspired to return!
The Architecture. Antoni Gaudi has the last word on that. While the work of many architects are represented in the city, Gaudi clearly takes center stage. His work is both unmistakable and unforgettable. There is spectacular architecture all the over the city from many architects. I was especially taken with the beauty of the churches. Among others, we visited a church in Tarragona that was spectacular. Incense wafted through the air from the mass in progress, which contributed to my sensory journey through the gilt laden sculpture, the cobalt glass windows, the soaring stone pillars, and the flickering candles, each presenting a plea of prayer.
The Art. The Picasso museum was stellar. Who knew he was a prodigy at such a young age? And to see him develop and change from room to room, arranged in sequence was incredibly interesting. This comes from someone who is very moved by art. I could have done a "rewind and repeat." But the rest of my group was in it for a "once and done."
The Fashion. The fashion is every bit an art form along with the architecture, art, and nature's beauty. Exploring the city's fashion was exciting and great fun, though we really covered only a few areas, leaving the rest to explore on another adventure. It left me with more money in my pocket, but with a little ache inside. A Barcelona trip could be a shopping adventure all on its own. The city is beckoning me back already.
