The Design Hub Barcelona (DHUB) is presenting "Wallpaper", a "study gallery" of items from the DHUB´s Decorative Arts and Graphic Arts Museums. Some 100 fine pieces have been chosen from the collections, which comprise numerous fine examples of local Catalan and international wallpaper spanning the period from the mid-nineteenth century to the present. A large portion of the papers are in the Art Nouveau style, noteworthy for vivid colours and dynamic designs. The sinuous curves so characteristic of this early twentieth-century style, along with ornamental flower and plant motifs, are well represented.
A study gallery is a public space for viewing, studying and reflecting on works held by the DHUB´s own museums. Objects displayed are organised by type and priority is given to providing supporting documentation to help the viewer become well-acquainted with the subject matter. In this sense, a study gallery distinguishes itself from a museum´s reserves, library or exhibition halls.
"Wallpaper" is divided into three parts. The first deals with types, including paper for standard wall surfaces, for pelmets or wainscoting, for ornamental borders, for pediments or panels above doors and windows and below ceilings, and for friezes and ceilings. The second part covers styles, from the Neoclassical period to revivals of 1960s and 1970s styles. The third looks at wallpaper today, and the interesting contributions of technological advances that have made an impact on design, production and aesthetics.
This initiative, curated by wallpaper specialist Maria Teresa Canals along with DHUB collections technician Rossend Casanova, will open on 1 July and continue through 31 October 2010 at the DHUB head office at 12 Carrer Montcada in Barcelona.

Rossend Casanova
Collections Technician, Design Hub Barcelona

www.dhub-bcn.cat