ROTTERDAM.- Kunsthal presents Antoni Gaudí - Dreaming, Drawing, Building, on view through September 18, 2005. This large-scale exhibition shows the fascinating world of architect Antoni Gaudí (1852-1926). Models, paintings, original construction elements, drawings and photographs sketch an image of a unique architect who converted the influence of Art Nouveau into a style all his own. Mosaics, furniture and other objects show the importance of Gaudí as a designer who left nothing to chance but rather designed the entire building, including the interior, himself. His most famous buildings, such as Casa Milà, Park Güell and the still unfinished Sagrada Familia church determine the appearance of Barcelona.

Even though Gaudí is rightfully the most famous architect who ever lived, his works are shrouded in mysteries. Showing Gaudí’s development from architect to self-willed artist, the Kunsthal’s exhibition will shed light on a few of these mysteries. The organic shapes of his fairy-tale buildings betray the influence of Art Nouveau, but Gaudí takes things one step further. He enlivens old buildings into something externally revolutionary – by the use of materials – as well as structurally ingenious. To be able to truly value Gaudí’s place in history, it is important to understand the structure of his buildings. To that end, spectacular suspended constructions are shown that helped him visualise his designs. Moreover, the symbolic meanings of his buildings will be unveiled.