The Vila Casas Foundation, driven by the cultural commitment of patron Antoni Vila Casas, is not just an institution dedicated to art: it is a living tribute to Catalan talent and the landscapes that inspire it. In the Empordà, two unique spaces —the Palau Solterra in Torroella de Montgrí and Can Mario in Palafrugell— offer exhibitions that connect contemporary art with the architectural memory of the region.
Visiting the Foundation's museums in the Empordà is like entering into a dialogue between art, history, and landscape. Founded in 2000 as a non-profit entity, the foundation has worked enthusiastically to promote and preserve contemporary Catalan art.
Palau Solterra: Contemporary Photography from Catalonia
In the heart of Torroella de Montgrí stands the Palau Solterra Museum, an exquisite 15th-century Renaissance palace that once served as the residence of the town's Count. Now, this contemporary photography museum hosts a lasting collection of over 300 works by local and international artists. The images delve into a wide range of themes, including landscapes, portraits, and even reflections on contemporary society and the impact of art in today’s world.
The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing works by emerging and established artists, creating a constant dialogue between different generations and photographic styles. Additionally, its program includes cultural activities such as lectures, workshops, and music cycles, designed to foster cultural exchange and critical reflection on art.
Palau Solterra is much more than an exhibition space; it is a place where tradition and modernity merge, offering visitors a unique experience in a historically rich setting. Its mission is a tribute to the power of the image as a vehicle for artistic and social expression.
Can Mario: Living Sculpture in Palafrugell
Just a few kilometers away, in the Baix Empordà, Can Mario is another of the Foundation’s museums.
This space, inaugurated in 2004, occupies a former 19th-century industrial building that was originally a cork warehouse, symbolizing the region's industrial heritage. Today, Can Mario has transformed into a cultural reference dedicated exclusively to contemporary sculpture.
The museum houses a permanent collection of over 300 sculptures created by Catalan artists and residents of Catalonia from the second half of the 20th century to the present day. The pieces reflect the diversity and innovation of contemporary sculptural language.
Alongside its permanent collection, Can Mario offers engaging temporary exhibitions where visitors can discover new local artistic proposals. The museum also features a sculpture garden and cultural activities that enrich the experience. It is a place where creativity and industrial tradition meet.
Commitment, Identity and Territory
The Vila Casas Foundation believes in art as a form of dialogue and expression. Its museums not only showcase works of art but also build connections between creators, visitors, and communities. In a world that moves too fast, its spaces invite people to stop, look calmly, and reconnect with what is essential.
