Joan Miró: My Decades-Long Connection to Spain’s Iconic Artist
From the moment I saw Joan Miró’s work in my Spanish art book during a class in Sevilla decades ago, I fell in love with the vibrant colors, playful chaos, and layered meanings behind his art. Born in Barcelona, Miró spent much of his life between Paris and Spain. His work is often classified as surrealism, but his influences include the Fauves, Cubists, Vincent van Gogh, and Paul Cézanne.
Miró’s art isn’t for everyone, but it speaks directly to me! One of his paintings, Figure in Front of the Sun, holds a special place in my heart because the initials are my own. When I turned a corner and saw it in the museum, I froze in my tracks. I couldn’t believe I was standing in front of his original painting I had studied so long ago.
The museum itself is perched atop a hill overlooking Barcelona and is surrounded by beautiful grounds dotted with Miró’s sculptures. The view alone is breathtaking, but the art makes it unforgettable.
After taking in the museum, I treated myself to a necklace with the word Paz (peace) and a glass of Anna Cava, a sparkling wine from Spain. It was the perfect way to end the experience. I can’t wait to go back!
La Sagrada Familia: Antoni Gaudí’s Masterpiece in Barcelona
No visit to Barcelona is complete without seeing La Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudí’s architectural masterpiece. Words alone can’t do justice to the grandeur of this iconic church, and if you plan to visit, I highly recommend booking a skip-the-line tour well in advance. These tours sell out months ahead, but they’re worth it. A local guide can share stories and details that you won’t find in a brochure or online—like the fact that all of the people sculpted are people he knew—or that he built blue and green windows to greet the dawn and orange and red windows to reflect the sunset.
Construction of the church began in 1882 under a different architect, but Gaudí took over in 1883. This became his life’s work, though it was far from complete when he died in 1926. At that time, less than a quarter of the church was finished. Thanks to his detailed drawings, construction has continued, and La Sagrada Familia is set to be completed in 2026. God willing, I will be there to see it.
In total, Gaudí created 17 buildings during his career, seven of which have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and Palau Güell, each showcasing his extraordinary creativity and vision.
Gaudí’s life was both brilliant and tragic. He poured himself into his work, especially after the one woman he loved rejected him. While this devotion gifted the world his creations, it’s a reminder of the loneliness he endured.
Even more heartbreaking is the story of his death. During his daily walk to church for prayers and confession, Gaudí was struck by a tram. Mistaken for a beggar because of his shabby clothing, he wasn’t helped until the next day. He died two days later at the age of 73. Today, he rests in La Sagrada Familia (the lower left picture is his grave), a testament to his vision and genius.
In recognition of his deep faith and contributions to religious art and architecture, Antoni Gaudí has been submitted for canonization in the Catholic Church, earning him the title Servant of God. His life and work continue to inspire admiration and reverence worldwide.
A Personal Moment at Montserrat
About an hour from Barcelona lies Montserrat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a place of cultural and spiritual significance for Catalonia. Nestled among the jagged peaks of the Montserrat mountains, the monastery is both a religious retreat and a cultural landmark.
One of the most revered parts of Montserrat is the sanctuary, where you’ll find La Moreneta, the Black Madonna and patron saint of Catalonia. Legend has it that her statue was discovered in 880. She has since withstood invasions, wars, and even the Franco era, becoming a symbol of resilience and faith.
Montserrat is also home to about 80 monks and the Escolania, one of the oldest boys’ choirs in Europe. The choir performs during religious ceremonies and communal prayers in the basilica, adding to the monastery's spiritual atmosphere.
During my visit, I touched La Moreneta and lit candles for my parents 🕯️💕 along the Ave Maria Path, where walls of flickering candles create a tranquil, sacred space. The basilica also houses an impressive museum featuring works by renowned artists.
After exploring the monastery, I strolled through shops that sold local products made by the monks, including honey, marmalade, tea, cava, olive oil, and baked goods. It was the perfect way to end my trip to Spain—a beautiful and peaceful experience.
¡Espero verte pronto, España! 🧡🇪🇸♥️
“Barcelona” by Freddie Mercury and Montserrat Caballé, from the album Barcelona. © 1988 Polydor-Hollywood.
