Museu Picasso

Pablo Picasso and the Sala Gaspar (1955 – 1973)

This exhibition illustrates the bond formed between Pablo Picasso and Jacqueline Roque, along with their cousins Joan and Miquel Gaspar and their partners, Elvira Farreras and Ena Alba. The dedication to Picasso and his legacy, combined with the affection he held for Barcelona, was pivotal in shaping the appreciation of his work in our city. The exhibition will showcase original documentation related to the many exhibitions of Picasso held at the Sala Gaspar and will feature numerous artworks that have been displayed. It will also highlight the arrival of Las Meninas at the Picasso Museum, an event aided by the Gaspar family. Central to this narrative is the friendship and respect shown by the Gaspar family towards the artist, as well as their professional ties with other important figures. This exhibition serves as a tribute to the friendship shared and acknowledges the influential role of the Gaspar gallery owners in the recognition of Pablo Picasso. Public programming associated with the exhibition will explore the significance of archival work in preserving memories and heritage while examining the implications of censorship towards Picasso's art during the Franco regime, especially the impact of private galleries in the absence of institutional support, and how this shaped the reception of Picasso's work in Barcelona.