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Alphonse Mucha in Barcelona's Caixa Forum

At the moment we're really lucky to have a fantastic exhibition in Barcelona. It is in the Caixa Forum (a former 19th century factory turned into art gallery and museum) and it includes a compilation of very important works by the world-wide known painter and designer Alphonse Mucha. He's considered one of the most important figures of the Art Nouveau, an artistic style which is called "Modernisme" (Modernism) in Catalan.

Mucha is famous for his portraits of women, all of them idealised and associated to beauty, poetry, mystery and symbolism. He was a very complete artist as he did many different types of works: posters to advertise Sara Bernhardt’s plays, jewellery design, interior design, postcards and, also, adverts for biscuits, bikes or champagne….

In fact, Modernisme or Art Nouveau is a very important style in our city. You have probably heard of Gaudí, but many more artists at the turn of the century were like local Muchas in our city and also aimed at a type of global art which was not only about architecture but also about all sort of decorative and artistic objects to be used and enjoyed in everyday life.

To see a few more of the paintings in the exhibition, click on the link of this slideshare presentation: Alphonse Mucha's images

My favourite activity in "La Mercè"

September means going back to school, but also enjoying Barcelona's annual festival "La Mercè", the city's patron saint. One of the most typical activities is the "Correfoc", a sort of parade with hundreds of people dressed as demons, together with big dragons and mythological monsters. They all carry sticks with firecrackers and dance to the infernal sound of drums and music. It is sometimes a bit scary but it gives you a real thrill due to the impressive sparks and the fire. A very hellishly event!!!

I took these pictures with my mobile on Saturday night, though they recommend you not to get too close to the dancers.

Have you taken part in any of "La Mercè's activities? Do you like the "Correfoc"? Why don't you tell us about it?