Fundació Palau

The Fundació Palau is an art exhibit centre that features the fantastic art collection left behind by Josep Palau i Fabre. Palau i Fabre was a Spanish Catalan poet and writer, known for representing Catalan literature in the post-World War period. He was also a renowned expert on the works of Pablo Picasso and eventually formed a close relationship with the artist. In the year 1987 Fabre wrote a letter explaining his wish for his collection of artwork and literature to be placed in a Palau Foundation. On May 4, 2003 the Fundació Palau was inaugurated after more than 15 years of searching for a suitable space to house the collection. 

The Fundació Palau aims to promote contemporary art and culture, focusing on the relationship between art and literature. The foundation houses an extensive collection of works by Picasso, reflecting Palau i Fabre’s close relationship with the artist. Additionally, it includes pieces by other contemporary artists and various documents, manuscripts, and personal items related to Palau i Fabre’s life and work. There are both permanent and temporary exhibits. The Palau Foundation’s permanent collection, comprising over 2,000 pieces, is displayed across three rooms: Catalan painting and sculpture from the early 20th century, Defensa de l’Avantguarda, and Estimat Picasso.

Temporary exhibitions vary from photography, painting, sculptures, portraits, to installations, and more. Such exhibits will typically stay at the foundation for months at a time, with no extra cost to explore the work. The Fundació Palau also collaborates with local schools where students can showcase their art projects. These students have the opportunity to spend the day in the foundation and walk guests through the process of their exhibit. When you purchase your ticket to enter the Fundació Palau, you are given paperwork that explains the history of Josep Palau i Fabre, details of his collection, and information on the special exhibit. The foundation offers this information in Spanish, Catalan, and English. Be sure to check the Fundació Palau website for the latest exhibits. 

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