The innovative Guggenheim Bilbao has played a huge part in transforming this industrial Basque city into a modern tourist destination. Designed by North American architect Frank Gehry, its bulging titanium curves house contemporary art exhibitions.
The gallery was constructed using titanium and limestone blocks, a combination of interconnecting shapes with curved glass walls which protect the art from heat and radiation damage. If arriving from the airport, the road sweeps around to confront the spectator with the dynamic presence of the building, the titanium reflecting both the old and new elements of the city. Inside, there are 19 galleries, providing the space and light to appreciate the artworks without overwhelming the viewer.
The museum rotates its permanent collection, providing constant, change and innovation in representation of styles, periods and mediums. These have included Modern, Cubist, Abstract and Pop Art, incorporating portraits, sculptures, videos and installations. Displays are organised either by artist, theme or period. The museum also puts on temporary exhibitions.
There is also a library, gallery shop, café and restaurant. Also check out the museum's outdoor sculptures, including Mamá a giant spiky metal spider by Louis Burgeois and the less-frightening Puppy by Jeff Koons, a huge dog made entirely of flowers.
The museum rotates its permanent collection, providing constant, change and innovation in representation of styles, periods and mediums. These have included Modern, Cubist, Abstract and Pop Art, incorporating portraits, sculptures, videos and installations. Displays are organised either by artist, theme or period. The museum also puts on temporary exhibitions.
There is also a library, gallery shop, café and restaurant. Also check out the museum's outdoor sculptures, including Mamá a giant spiky metal spider by Louis Burgeois and the less-frightening Puppy by Jeff Koons, a huge dog made entirely of flowers.
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