Poems from the Catalan is an exhibition of avant-garde poetry and art inspired by 30 years of political oppression in the Catalan region of Spain. It has been specially brought to Penrith by Eden Arts from Newcastle University's Hatton Gallery. The exhibition will be shown at two venues, Penrith and Eden Museum and also Penrith Town Hall throughout the month of August.
The exhibition focuses on the collaborative work of the Barcelona-born poet Joan Brossa (1919-1998) and artist Antoni Tàpies (b.1923), produced in the early 1970s as a response to General Franco's Nationalist regime. Franco saw the unique Catalan language and culture as a threat to the united Spain he wanted to create. Tàpies and Brossa were proud Catalans and both actively oppossed Franco's political dictatorship and his censorship of art and culture. Franco directly targeted both Brossa and Tàpies in the era following the end of the Spanish Civil war (1936-39).
This exhibition reflects the artistic and political concerns of the artist and poet who continued to reject Franco's vision and to develop independent avant-guarde work. They remain important figures in 20th century art and each is now represented by their own Foundation in Barcelona.
Opening Times
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Town Hall: Monday to Friday - 9am to 5pm
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Museum: Monday to Saturday - 10am to 5pm and Sunday 1pm to 4.45pm.
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Free entry
Creative workshops
In association with the exhibition we are holding creative workshops at Penrith and Eden Museum with artist Karen MacDougall and poet Ann Wilson.
On Tuesday 12 and Thursday 14 August, 10am - 4pm.
Cost - £20 for both days, £15 for one day.
Bookings 01768 899444 or enquiries@edenarts.co.uk
Come and explore text and images and create your own political dynamite!
See images from the exhibition online at: 24 Hour Museum.
Museum Curators
Penrith Museum curators are available to answer questions on current and future exhibitions as well as any other questions concerning the museum:
- Contact: Dr Sydney T Chapman or Mrs Judith Clarke, MA AMA, Joint Curators,
- Address: Penrith Museum, Robinson School, Penrith CA11 7PT
- Telephone: 01768 865105
- Email: museum@eden.gov.uk
