CaixaForum Barcelona discovers the industrial architecture of Jean Prouvé

The Universe of Jean Prouvé. Architecture / Industry / Furniture exhibition is a retrospective exploring the work of the French industrialist and furniture designer whose prefabricated elements revolutionised construction techniques in the mid-20th century. Considered one of the innovators of the last century, Prouvé pioneered affordable, quality architecture destined for the greatest number of people possible. His furniture stood out for being durable, simple and lightweight.

There are some 235 pieces on display, including models, plans, photographs, drawings, furniture and documents, taken from the architecture and design collections of the Centre Pompidou in Paris. Most of these items were donated to the Centre by Prouvé’s family.

The exhibition highlights how Jean Prouvé, who started out as an artisan metalworker, went on to become a versatile, multifaceted industrialist. His career would include projects ranging from prefabricated houses, markets and service stations to furniture of every kind, all with a marked social conscience.

Open from 15 July to 31 October 2021, this display is the second collaboration between the Centre Pompidou in Paris and ”la Caixa” Foundation, fruit of the agreement between the two institutions.