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The Reina Sofía Museum, located in Madrid, Spain, is a cultural treasure that shines with a uniqueness that distinguishes it from other museums around the world. Founded in 1992, this contemporary art museum has become a beacon for lovers of 20th and 21st century art and creativity.
What makes the Reina Sofía Museum stand out from other museums is its exclusive focus on contemporary Spanish art. Here, visitors can explore an impressive collection of masterpieces by renowned Spanish artists, such as Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró and, of course, Pablo Picasso, whose famous painting “Guernica” resides in the museum. This 20th century masterpiece is one of the most iconic in art history and a primary reason to visit the museum.
In addition to its outstanding permanent collection, the Reina Sofía Museum stands out for its commitment to the artistic avant-garde and innovation. Its temporary exhibitions feature works by both Spanish and international contemporary artists, giving visitors a unique insight into current artistic trends.
In September 2023, a change was introduced in the museum’s policy, a change that is surely aimed at taking advantage of the pull of new technologies and the influence of social networks. This change allows Guernica to be photographed for the first time in the history of the Museum. Maybe those responsible for the museum want to stop hearing that “What museum is Guernica in?”
‘Guernica’ Photographs Now Allowed
The Reina Sofía Museum in Madrid has introduced an exciting new feature for its visitors. From September 1, under the direction of new director Manuel Segade, art lovers can take photographs of Picasso’s iconic ‘Guernica’, as long as one condition is met: no flash or tripods are allowed.
A Decision That Transforms the Art Experience
This initiative’s main objective is to improve the experience of those who visit this outstanding work by Picasso. According to museum sources, Manuel Segade explains: “Our intention was simply that it could be done normally, not to announce to the press or anything because if photos were taken throughout the museum, in all the great museums in the world and, above all, that we live mediated by cameras continuously, when we go to a concert, when we go to any cultural event… well, we believe that it does not make sense that ‘Guernica’ does not have the same iconicity that it deserves.”
Visitor Facilities
The director emphasizes that visitors deserve the opportunity to capture this cultural phenomenon with their own cameras, just as they can at other cultural events. Previously, the ban affected the entire room that houses the work, and was implemented to protect the fragile painting, which arrived in Spain in 1981 after 42 years at the MoMA in New York and was hung in the Reina Sofía in 1992.
However, with current technological advances, the ban is no longer necessary, as it does not pose a danger to the work. This decision is made in line with the growing demand to facilitate the visitor experience and allow young audiences, accustomed to constant interaction with technology, to fully enjoy this masterpiece.
Permanent Restrictions
Despite the openness to photography, some restrictions remain in place. The use of stabilizers, selfie sticks, tripods or flashes will not be permitted. Capacity control will remain as before to guarantee a comfortable and safe visit for everyone.
A Change That Emphasizes Accessibility
Manuel Segade concludes: “I would like us to reach 100% photographic accessibility, especially for that young audience that also lives filtered by a screen. I think it is also important to pay attention to their way of approaching reality.
With this decision, the Reina Sofía Museum welcomes a new era of interaction and appreciation of art, inviting everyone to live the ‘Guernica’ experience in a more personal and meaningful way. Why not plan your next visit to the Reina Sofía with an accredited Tourtime.es guide and discover the beauty of this masterpiece for yourself?
What do you know about Pablo Picasso’s “Guernica”?
Pablo Picasso’s “Guernica” is an iconic masterpiece that contains numerous interesting aspects, anecdotes and little-known secrets:
- Historical Context: Picasso painted “Guernica” in 1937 as a response to the horrors of the Spanish Civil War. The work reflects the brutality and suffering caused by the bombing of the city of Guernica by Nazi German and fascist Italian aviation.
- Monumental Dimensions: The painting is exceptionally large, with dimensions of 3.49 meters high and 7.76 meters wide. This magnitude reflects the importance and impactful presence of the work.
- Deep Symbolism: Each element in the painting has a symbolic meaning. The bull represents suffering and the dying horse symbolizes terror. The weeping eye and the lamp are symbols of the light that is extinguished in the midst of darkness.
- The Horse and the Bull: These two animals are especially notable. The horse, with its fallen and wounded head, is interpreted as a representation of the helpless victim of war. The bull, with its jaws open, represents violence and aggression.
- Absence of Color: Picasso deliberately chose black and white for the color palette of “Guernica.” This choice accentuates the feeling of tragedy and anguish, without chromatic distractions.
- Innovative Technique: Picasso experimented with new artistic techniques for this work, including the use of brushes and palette knives, which allowed him to create unique textures and visual effects.
- World Tour: After its creation, “Guernica” was exhibited on a world tour to raise funds for the Republican cause during the Civil War. This exhibition contributed to his international recognition.
- Temporary Residence in New York: For decades, the painting was kept at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York. Picasso insisted that the painting not return to Spain until democracy was restored.
- Return to Spain: “Guernica” finally returned to Spain in 1981, six years after Franco’s death and the restoration of democracy. It is now in the Reina Sofía Museum in Madrid, where it has become one of the most precious artistic treasures in Spain.
- Lasting Impact: Over the years, “Guernica” has continued to inspire artists and activists around the world, reminding us of the importance of peace and the fight against brutality and oppression.
- Picasso’s “Guernica” is much more than a painting; It is an artistic and political testament that continues to excite and move those who have the opportunity to see it in person. If you are one of those people who likes to make the most of your experiences, we recommend visiting the Reina Sofía Museum accompanied by an accredited local guide so you don’t miss anything and learn all the anecdotes and interesting facts that this fantastic museum offers.
