The Universitat Pompeu Fabra (Plaça de la Mercè, 12, Ciutat Vella), joins the commemoration of the centenary of the birth of Antoni Tàpies with the opening to the public of the Tàpies Reflection Room, a public work of great importance created by the artist himself.
This room, located within the facilities of the UPF in the Ciutadella campus, is part of the university heritage and now opens as part of the activities of the Any Tàpies.
Inaugurated in 1996, the Reflection Room is a 500 m³ underground crypt illuminated by large windows that allow natural light to enter. This space, with a floor plan of 10 x 5 meters and a height of 10 meters, houses a series of works selected by Tàpies with the purpose of encouraging reflection and introspection in visitors.
The artist, in his handwritten justification dedicated to the Hall, expressed his desire to create a space that would favor recollection and concentration in a world full of distractions and “false realities”.
Tàpies Reflection Room: where art and spirituality are integrated
The Tàpies Reflection Room is more than just a physical space; it is a place where art and spirituality intertwine. Tàpies claimed the importance of this connection by turning the room into a refuge from the outside world, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
In addition to its concrete structure, the room has works such as the mural “Díptic de la campana” and the sculpture “Serp i plat”, personally selected by the artist to create an atmosphere conducive to contemplation.
The activities of the Any Tàpies at UPF include special events that will take place in the Reflection Room. For example, the cycle “Concerts La Maleta de Tàpies”, in collaboration with the ESMUC, will offer concerts inspired by the music Tàpies listened to while working in his studios.
This project seeks to explore the influence of music in the artist’s work, using pieces by composers such as Giacinto Scelsi, John Cage and György Ligeti.
In addition, the Sala de Reflexión will host a concert by Niño de Elche as part of the cycle “Las sillas de Tàpies”, a multidisciplinary action that is part of the official closing of the Any Tàpies. These events, together with the regular opening of the gallery to the public on working Fridays, offer a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the artistic and philosophical legacy of Antoni Tàpies.
The Tàpies Reflection Room represents a space where art, reflection and spirituality meet. Through its programmed works and events, it invites visitors to enter a world of contemplation and inner discovery, honoring the legacy of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
