Modern Art Wing

Explore the Modern Art Wing at Madrid's Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. Discover Impressionism, Cubism, Pop Art, and more from Van Gogh to Hopper in Spain.

Overview

Nestled within Madrid's prestigious Golden Triangle of Art, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum offers a unique journey through Western art history. While the museum's vast collection spans centuries, the focus here is on its remarkable modern art sections, often referred to as the 'Modern Art Wing' by visitors. This vibrant segment of the collection provides an essential link, bridging the historical masters found in the Prado Museum and the contemporary works showcased at the Reina Sofía. It's a place where the revolutionary brushstrokes of Impressionism evolve into the introspective narratives of Expressionism and the bold statements of Pop Art, offering a comprehensive overview of 19th and 20th-century artistic innovation.

Unlike many national collections that grew organically, the Thyssen-Bornemisza's modern art holdings are a testament to an ambitious private collecting vision. They present a meticulously curated narrative of how art transformed in response to a rapidly changing world, featuring masterpieces that often surprise and delight with their emotional depth and technical brilliance. Visitors will discover a carefully chosen selection of works by iconic figures from across Europe and America, making it an indispensable stop for anyone seeking to understand the trajectory of modern art.

History & Cultural Background

The genesis of the Thyssen-Bornemisza's modern art collection lies in the discerning tastes of two generations of industrialist collectors: Baron Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza and his son, Baron Hans Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza. The elder Baron began acquiring major works in the early 20th century, but it was Hans Heinrich who significantly expanded the collection to include 19th and 20th-century art, aiming to fill the chronological gaps left by major public museums. His vision was to create a cohesive collection that illustrated the evolution of Western art in its entirety.

This private collection, initially housed in the family's Villa Favorita in Lugano, Switzerland, became legendary for its quality and scope. After extensive negotiations, the Spanish state acquired the majority of the collection in 1993, a landmark cultural event that permanently enriched Spain's artistic patrimony. The modern art pieces, in particular, provided Spain with an unprecedented view of movements like Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, and various avant-garde schools that were less represented in other Spanish public institutions. This acquisition transformed Madrid into an even more formidable art capital, offering a global perspective on art history under one roof.

What Makes It Special

What sets the modern art collection at the Thyssen-Bornemisza apart is its exceptional breadth and the personal touch of its collectors. It serves as an encyclopedic survey of styles and movements, featuring seminal works by artists often missing from other major European collections. Here, you can trace the journey from the atmospheric landscapes of the Impressionists like Monet and Renoir to the vibrant, emotional intensity of Post-Impressionists such as Van Gogh and Gauguin. The collection then delves into the dramatic expressions of German Expressionism with artists like Kirchner and Nolde, and the groundbreaking abstract forms of Kandinsky and Mondrian.

Beyond these, it offers glimpses into Cubism through Picasso and Braque, the dreamscapes of Surrealism with Dalí and Miró, and the quintessential American realism of Edward Hopper. The later 20th-century is represented by influential Pop Artists such as Roy Lichtenstein and Andy Warhol. This unique curatorial approach, shaped by private passion rather than national emphasis, allows for fascinating juxtapositions and a truly global narrative of modernism, making it a compelling complement to the other two museums in Madrid's Golden Triangle.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

• The Bridge Builder: The Thyssen-Bornemisza is often called the 'bridge museum' because its collection effectively bridges the chronological gap between the old masters of the Prado and the contemporary art of the Reina Sofía, particularly with its strong holdings of 19th and early 20th-century art.
• A Collector's Eye: Baron Hans Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza was known for his keen eye and willingness to acquire works that might have been considered less mainstream at the time, leading to a collection rich in variety and unexpected masterpieces. For example, his acquisition of American paintings from the 19th and 20th centuries was pioneering for a European private collection.
• Hidden Gems: While many flock to see the Impressionists, don't overlook the museum's significant collection of Russian Constructivist art or the powerful German Expressionist works, which provide a less common, yet equally vital, perspective on modernism.
• The Hopper Effect: Edward Hopper's iconic painting, 'Hotel Room', is a particular highlight in the modern sections. Its melancholic atmosphere and striking composition draw visitors in, becoming a memorable encounter for many.

Visitor Perspective

Walking through the modern art sections of the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is an immersive experience. The galleries are thoughtfully arranged, allowing for a natural progression through artistic movements and styles. Rather than overwhelming vastness, there is a sense of intimacy that encourages quiet contemplation of individual works. You can spend ample time absorbing the vibrant colors of a Fauvist landscape, decoding the fragmented planes of a Cubist still life, or reflecting on the psychological depth of an Expressionist portrait.

For the curious traveler, this 'wing' is not just a collection of paintings; it's a window into the minds of artists grappling with modernity, societal change, and the very nature of perception. It provides a deeper understanding of how the art world evolved, inspiring both intellectual curiosity and emotional connection. Whether you are an art aficionado or a casual observer, the modern art collection offers countless moments of discovery, leaving you with a richer appreciation for the transformative power of art in the modern age.