Artium Museum
País Vasco
The Artium Museum, located in Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital of Álava in the Basque Country of northern Spain, is a distinguished contemporary art museum founded in 2002. Housed in a former bus station, its innovative architectural design by José Luis Catón features large portions of the building below street level, earning it the nickname 'museum-cellar.' The museum holds a significant permanent collection of around 3,000 works by prominent Basque, Spanish, and international artists including Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, Eduardo Chillida, Antoni Tàpies, and Miquel Barceló. Its exhibitions include paintings, sculptures, engravings, drawings, photography, video, and installations, with a focus on 20th and 21st-century art. Noteworthy interior highlights include the ceramic mural by Joan Miró and Josep Llorens i Artigas in the main lobby, the monumental sculpture "Un pedazo de cielo cristalizado" by Javier Pérez, and the permanent glass sculpture installation "Water Flames (flowing)" by Anabel Quincoces. The museum also features an auditorium, educational workshops, a library, and a restaurant. Outside, the striking 45-meter iron sculpture "La Mirada" by Miquel Navarro dominates the plaza. Artium is a cultural hub that combines cutting-edge contemporary art with a distinctive architectural setting, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
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Tip: Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more contemplative experience. Booking tickets online in advance is recommended, especially for special exhibitions and events. The museum offers discounts for students, seniors, and groups. Check the official website for current opening hours and any temporary closures. Take advantage of guided tours to deepen your understanding of the collection and exhibitions.
Interesting facts
- •The museum is commonly nicknamed the 'museum-cellar' due to its extensive underground construction.
- •The main lobby features a large ceramic mural by Joan Miró and Josep Llorens i Artigas.
- •The monumental sculpture 'Un pedazo de cielo cristalizado' by Javier Pérez is a centerpiece in the museum's entrance hall.
- •The 45-meter tall iron sculpture 'La Mirada' by Miquel Navarro stands prominently outside the museum.
- •The museum's collection includes works by internationally renowned artists such as Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso, and Joseph Beuys.
History
The Artium Museum was inaugurated on April 26, 2002, emerging from a collaboration between the Provincial Council of Álava, the Basque Government, the Spanish Ministry of Culture, and the Vitoria City Council.
The museum is managed by the Artium Foundation of Álava, established in 2001 to oversee its operations.
Architect José Luis Catón designed the building on the site of the old Vitoria bus station, featuring a distinctive design with most of its space below street level.
Over the years, the museum has expanded its collection through acquisitions, donations, and deposits, becoming a leading institution for contemporary Basque and Spanish art.
Place Guide
Main Lobby
The main lobby features the impressive ceramic mural by Joan Miró and Josep Llorens i Artigas alongside Javier Pérez's monumental sculpture 'Un pedazo de cielo cristalizado,' creating a striking artistic introduction to the museum.
Permanent Collection Galleries (Salas A0, A1, A2)
These underground exhibition rooms display the museum's extensive permanent collection of approximately 3,000 works, including paintings, sculptures, engravings, drawings, photography, video, and installations by Basque, Spanish, and international artists.
Water Flames (flowing)2007
A permanent glass sculpture installation by Vitoria artist Anabel Quincoces, located in the ante-chamber leading to the exhibition halls, featuring blown glass pieces symbolizing flowing water and light.
Auditorium and Educational Workshops
Located in the white concrete cube at the museum's west side, these spaces host lectures, performances, and educational activities, supporting the museum's cultural and community engagement.
Library and Documentation Center
Situated in the granite building above the Sala A3, this center offers resources for research and study related to contemporary art and the museum's collections.
Contact
Phone: 945 20 90 20
