Casa Museu Joan Abelló

Casa Museu Joan Abelló, nestled in the heart of Mollet del Vallès, Spain, is not just a museum but a vibrant testament to the life and passions of the renowned Catalan painter, Joan Abelló i Prat. This unique cultural gem offers visitors an intimate glimpse into the artist's world, showcasing his extensive and eclectic art collection amassed over a lifetime.

The History of Casa Museu Joan Abelló

Joan Abelló i Prat (1922-2008) was a prolific painter and an avid art collector. Born in Mollet del Vallès, Abelló's passion for art was evident from a young age. Over the years, he transformed his home into a sanctuary for his vast collection of artworks and artifacts. The house, which originally belonged to his family, gradually expanded as Abelló acquired neighboring properties to accommodate his growing collection. Today, the Casa Museu Joan Abelló comprises eleven interconnected houses, creating a labyrinthine space filled with artistic treasures.

In 1996, Abelló generously donated a significant portion of his collection to the city of Mollet del Vallès, including around five thousand pieces of art, a comprehensive documentation center, and his home. This donation led to the establishment of the Museu Abelló in 1999. A few years later, in 2002, the Casa Museu Joan Abelló opened its doors to the public, allowing visitors to explore the artist's personal universe. In 2006, Abelló made a second donation, adding another five thousand pieces and his artist's workshop to the collection, further enriching the cultural heritage managed by the Fundació Municipal Joan Abelló.

Exploring Casa Museu Joan Abelló

Visiting Casa Museu Joan Abelló is like stepping into a living, breathing work of art. The museum houses an impressive array of over ten thousand objects, ranging from paintings and sculptures to ceramics, glassware, and antique toys. The collection spans various styles and periods, with notable works by renowned artists such as Dalí, Picasso, Sorolla, Joaquim Mir, Manolo Hugué, and Marià Pidelaserra.

The museum's layout is a journey through different eras and artistic movements, with each room offering a unique theme or focus. As you wander through the house, you'll encounter rooms dedicated to modernist art, oriental art, African art, and more. The careful organization of the collection reflects Abelló's meticulous nature and his desire to share his passion with the world.

The Abelló-Dalí Room

One of the highlights of Casa Museu Joan Abelló is the Abelló-Dalí Room, dedicated to the close relationship between Joan Abelló and the surrealist master Salvador Dalí. This room features a selection of Dalí's works, including a unique dinnerware set designed by the artist, as well as photographs of the two painters together. The room's centerpiece is a stunning mural on the ceiling, painted by Abelló as a tribute to Dalí in the year of his death. The Abelló-Dalí Room also houses a significant collection of Dalí's manuscripts, documents, and personal items, making it a valuable resource for those interested in the life and work of the enigmatic artist.

The Joaquim Mir Room

Another captivating space within the museum is the Joaquim Mir Room, dedicated to the influential Catalan artist whom Abelló considered his first master. Although the two artists never met, Mir's work had a profound impact on Abelló's early career. The room features a selection of Mir's drawings, oil paintings, and personal items, offering insight into his artistic journey. Additionally, the room showcases decorative Art Nouveau pieces, including works by Louis Majorelle, the Daum brothers, and Britannia metal collections, highlighting the elegance and beauty of the modernist movement.

World Arts

Casa Museu Joan Abelló also boasts a diverse collection of world art, with rooms dedicated to Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Persian, Moroccan, and Egyptian pieces. These artifacts, acquired by Abelló during his travels or through purchases from other collections, provide a fascinating glimpse into different cultures and artistic traditions. The museum has preserved the original arrangement of these objects, reflecting Abelló's unique organizational style and his passion for collecting.

The Portrait Room

The Portrait Room is a testament to Abelló's connections within the artistic community. This room features over 200 portraits of the artist, created by his friends and fellow artists. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, drawings, and photographs, capturing different stages of Abelló's life and showcasing a variety of artistic techniques and styles from the 20th century. Notable artists such as Josep Guinovart, Modest Cuixart, Subirachs, and Castellsagués contributed to this remarkable collection. Additionally, the Portrait Room houses a unique sculpture, the Automaton-Harlequin, created by Abelló himself, representing one of his recurring artistic themes.

Casa Museu Joan Abelló is more than just a museum; it is a reflection of the artist's soul and a celebration of his lifelong dedication to art. Whether you are an art enthusiast or simply curious about the life of Joan Abelló, a visit to this extraordinary museum promises an unforgettable experience filled with beauty, history, and inspiration.