MNAC director Pepe Serra has publicly defended the museum’s decision to host a private concert by Rosalía, questioning the logic of critics who labelled the event a danger to artworks.
His comments come amidst a wider debate about the handling and movement of valuable pieces within the institution.
Your browser does not support the video tag.
According to a report by VilaWeb, Serra pointedly asked why there was more alarm over the concert than over other standard museum practices.
MNAC Director Questions Double Standards in Art Safety
Serra’s rhetorical question highlighted a perceived inconsistency. “If Rosalía’s concert is a danger,” he asked, “what is sawing a piece into 74 pieces?” This statement directly references the complex, and sometimes invasive, processes required to transport large or fragile historical artworks for restoration or exhibition. The director’s argument suggests that routine conservation work involves greater physical risk to artefacts than a controlled cultural event.
Furthermore, the controversy taps into a recurring tension in Barcelona’s cultural scene between preserving heritage and enabling contemporary use. The museum has recently hosted other high-profile events, including Rosalía’s ‘Immobile’ show which stunned 900 guests last month. Consequently, Serra’s defence frames the concert as part of MNAC’s evolving role as a living cultural centre, not merely a static repository.
The discussion also intersects with broader conversations about urban space and cultural memory in the city. Similar debates about transformation and use have emerged elsewhere, such as the ongoing discussions highlighted in a new book examining Barcelona’s urban transformation since the 1992 Olympics. The MNAC situation reflects a microcosm of this city-wide dialogue on balancing history with modernity.
Ultimately, Pepe Serra’s comments defend a vision of the museum as a dynamic institution. He implies that calculated risks for public engagement are essential, especially when compared to the unseen, yet accepted, risks inherent in standard art stewardship. The MNAC director’s stance, therefore, champions a more accessible and actively used national collection for Catalonia.
Stay connected with us on social media for the latest updates and news!
TikTok | Instagram | YouTube | X
Source: Read original article
