After the Gaudí year: what more is known about his work?

Abstract

The article analyses the effects of what has been said and written about Gaudí and his work in 2001-2002 International Gaudí Year. According to the author; the deluge of information has served little to raise the level of knowledge and understanding of his work. Apart from a numerical listing of the texts published during this period (most of which refer to the individual rather than his work), it highlights the occasional cycle of conferences and exhibitions that have contributed something new in respect of the architect’s achievements. On the other hand, the announcement denouncing to the restoration of the Colonia Güell Church (presented in the closing stages of the commemorative year), and the folly of the hotel in New York, are put forward as two cases which illustrate the fact that it is one thing lo contribute to knowledge, but another matter to have it accepted by experts. The article concludes that all this illustrates the constant lack of understanding and confusion about the architect’s work and underlines the futileness of the Gaudí Year.