THE FAMILY / Antoni Gaudi

 

ANTONI GAUDI, (1852-1926) born in Reus, Spain, is considered one of the most influential architects of the 20th century. His collaborations with local artisans produced some of the most experimental and visually striking structures in Spain. His overtly unorthodox homes, churches, furniture and interiors reveal his intricate ability to utilize a wide variety of materials - most notably his colorful use of ceramic mosaic tiling. Some of his greatest accomplishments included: Casa Milá (1906-1910) - an artificial yet natural building which can be seen as a summary of all the forms he has become famous for. Güell Park (1900-1914), a massive recreational area in Barcelona, draws its forms from natural elements, creating impressive structures which often mimic the organic. Sagrada Familia (1883), is a church reminiscent of the Gothic tradition, but the ornate use of sculpture and mosaic tiling is unmistakably Gaudi. This was his final, and most important project.