Can Framis

The Museu Can Framis in Barcelona is one of the city’s main contemporary art museums, located in the lively Poblenou neighborhood, now known as the 22@ technological district. This museum is a project of the Fundació Vila Casas, a private foundation dedicated to promoting Catalan contemporary art. Opened in 2009, Can Framis houses a permanent collection of around 300 works spanning from the 1960s to the present day, all created by artists born or residing in Catalonia. The museum is housed in an 18th-century former textile factory, originally owned by the Framis family. The building’s renovation was carried out by the BAAS Arquitectes studio under the direction of Jordi Badia, who transformed the old factory into a modern exhibition space without losing the historical charm of the original structure. The conversion retained many elements of industrial architecture, such as brick facades and stone floors, creating a fascinating contrast with the new glass and concrete additions. Upon entering Can Framis, visitors are greeted by a harmonious fusion of old and new. The restored neoclassical facade of the factory is juxtaposed with a contemporary glass extension, symbolizing Barcelona’s transition from an industrial city to a cultural and technological hub. The museum’s interiors are designed to offer an immersive experience, with a layout that invites visitors on a chronological journey through the evolution of Catalan contemporary art. The exhibited works include a wide range of media, including painting, sculpture, and installations, reflecting the diversity and dynamism of the local art scene.