Tallers Oberts de PobleNou (Open Workshops)

In September 2018, the Poblenou district celebrated the 22nd edition of Tallers Oberts (Open Workshops). The event lasted four days and included the participation of more than 20 creative spaces and more than 150 artists, representing more than 15 different artistic disciplines.

I explored many of the open workshops as well as participated with my fellow artists at the 137° Artistic Studio. The activities included practical workshops, exhibitions, live DJ sets, screenings and guided tours, among others.

Here are a few of my experiences.

Working with clay at the 137° Artistic Studio

The 137° Artistic Studio is a creative space dedicated to contemporary ceramics. A small group of international artists from different artistic backgrounds share the work space.

We opened our doors to allow visitors to play with clay—both hand-building and on the potter’s wheel. We welcomed more people than we ever imagined, with lines out the door on Saturday and Sunday!

Besides the opportunity to get your hands dirty, we had an exhibition of ceramic teapots and teacups as well as a ceramics raffle with all of the proceeds going to a local charity.

Exploring Artistic Spaces at La Escocesa

La Escocesa is a center of artistic production focused on the self-managed visual arts. It’s located in an old industrial complex dating back to 1852. It has become a space for creation and a meeting point for artists and craftsmen from different disciplines.

During Tallers Oberts, you’ll find music, a bar and food trucks set up in the patio, while the artists wait for you inside to invite you into their workspace and answer any questions you may have.

I discovered talented painters, illustrators, sculptors as well as a few friendly critters. One of the more unique installations is an artist who dedicates his workspace to collecting all the garbage he has created in recent years.

Delving into the senses at Hangar

Just a few minutes walk from La Escocesa, Hangar is located in the Can Ricart industrial complex. Hangar is a centre for art research and production, offering support to visual artists.

Hangar was also set up with a bar and DJ to keep visitors entertained. While walking around the artists’ work spaces, I discovered local painters as well as installations dedicated to sensory experiences. I was immersed in sounds, sprayed with water and entered the most interactive and tactile room I have ever seen. In the bubble wrap room, you’re not only invited, but encouraged to touch and play.

More fun and community building

To top it all off, the Fiesta Mayor of Poblenou took place on the same weekend, so after the open workshops, there was plenty of live music and fun activities to keep us entertained into the night.

Tallers Oberts is a great initiative to get the general public involved with the creative spaces in their neighborhoods. Artists get to show their work and share their experiences. It’s all about building a stronger community and this year was a huge success.

I look forward to seeing you all next year!