One of the few photos I took (though everybody had their cameras in the air). The interior is as majestic as the exterior, full of organic forms, original engineering, attention to light, color, message, sound . . . and a presence that moves one toward awe.
Below, the more familiar exterior (artistically handled).
We traveled to Barcelona. I’d particularly wanted to see the work of the over-the-top creative architect, Antoni Gaudi. Though I’m not one to use the word “awe” lightly, I could happily make an exception here.
In the past I’ve wondered who this person was that seemed to do architecture without a straightedge. And how the society in which he lived allowed him to decorate their landscape with designs seemingly inspired by sandcastles. How little I knew. It’s one of the benefits of travel, and “being there.”
Since you’re not, I’ll not try to further describe it all.
Except this, besides being an obvious genius, he was about as God-dedicated as they come. Of all the monumental structures we’ve seen on this trip, each obviously built to impress, this one, the Church of the Holy Family, also impresses; but the focus is not as much to the architect but to the Grand Commissioner.
Not sure if the other thousand or so visitors that shared the space with us saw all this the same way. I know I am having some hours of renewed wonder about that Grand Commissioner myself, along with Anne, as we drive around on this trip. But more on that another day. (Maybe.)
For the moment, it’s a brief tribute to Antoni Gaudi, another example of one who gave himself to one thing, dedicated his particular gifts to the highest being, created a “life work,” and left a monument and inspiration for the rest of us.
Incidentally, though it consumed the greater part of his life, it’s not finished. Construction is still going on, and will yet for a long time. It’s a life work bigger than one life.
I’m awed.
Our Lives Together
Its About Life
8:49 am
Gaudi evidently “felt God’s pleasure” when he created with his hands. Jesus gave thanks, then, with his hands, miracles occurred. This artist, with grateful heart, sculpted that which inspires, I’m sure far beyond what he felt his own limitations dictated. A lesson for all of us. Appreciate the share and thoughts, Hyatt, bring on more (or, Moore!).
9:21 am
I’ve always wanted to see this magnificent work- one day I will. Thank you for confirming its beauty and awe-ness.
10:40 am
This is one work that has long fascinated – would love to see it “live” one day.
What a wonderful adventure you folks are having!
1:13 pm
Matt and I saw this on our trip to Spain last year…almost a year to the day that you and Anne are there. As we came up out of escalator onto the street and I looked up, I just about fell backward…I was so awed. We were both shocked senseless.
It is hard to put words to the experience of being there.
It is one place I would gladly pay the money to simply fly to Barcelona, see this magnificent work, and fly home…it would be worth every penny and every second of time.
So glad you got to see it.
Raise your glass to Gaudi over a plate of patatas bravas and sangria….
3:14 pm
Been there…..Majestic. I was taken by how the people seem to feel a sense of ownership and have a bond with this church and the man himself.
Was in Dana Point last week….missed you.
Allan Hedberg
5:47 pm
Hyatt, Barcelona is beautiful this time of year. Take a walk down the Main Avenue called “Diagonal” where there are several cool buildings designed by Gaudi. Another cool walk is down La Rambla and you can visit the home now museum of Pablo Picasso. Catalan Tapas rock!
Enjoy!
Jim
9:35 pm
Thanks for the photos. For years I’ve wanted to go to Spain to see Gaudi’s church. More inspired than ever.
9:10 am
The painting also inspires!
9:17 am
Hyatt, enjoy your time on my continent. I am traveling at present, so can’t greet you in person. Every thing that He calls us to is bigger than us and will live beyond us. Thanks for the reminder… so important for all of us in His service.
1:00 pm
Hyatt, Just here in little ole Laguna and some folks walked into the gallery looking for something to decorate their Spanish style new home! I thought of you and gave them your name. Here I am commenting now as well on your wonderful blog. Lots of good reading! DCavanagh
1:41 pm
Is this your painting? I really like it, it is a good representation of the building.
8:52 pm
I have seen a TV special on this and would love to visit in person one day. It truly appears to be awe inspiring! We will go to Italy for the first time, in the Spring. I hear the Vatican is nice, too.
;-)
10:56 am
[…] One of the greatest high points of the trip was the visit to the Church of the Sacred Family in Barcelona. I’d long wanted to see Gaudi’s architecture in person, considering it about the most creative and free-form imaginable. But I was also very moved by the imagery, more than in any other church we visited. Much more. I reflected on this as well, and the value of a life work, in Blank Slate. […]