Tàpies painted crosses until the end, but they are not Christian, they are the T of Teresa, the great love of the artist
The article discusses Antoni Tàpies' use of crosses in his artwork, particularly as representations of his love for Teresa Barba, rather than as Christian symbols.
The article highlights Antoni Tàpies' distinctive approach to crosses in his final works, depicting them not as traditional Christian symbols but as representations of vital crossroads in life, notably symbolizing his deep affection for Teresa Barba. This perspective was shared during the presentation of the exhibition 'Tàpies. Última década (2002-2012)' at the Fundación Bancaja in Valencia, showcasing several never-before-exhibited pieces from Tàpies' last decade of creativity.
Fernando Castro Flores, who presented the exhibition, emphasized that the crosses and the letter 'T' recur in Tàpies' works, underscoring the personal significance these symbols held for the artist. The exhibition features 22 selected works from the family collection, with five being shown to the public for the first time, providing insights into Tàpies’ artistic evolution and the intimate connections embedded within his pieces.
The exploration of these themes in Tàpies' work invites viewers to reflect on the intersection of personal narratives and artistic expression. By reframing the cross as a representation of emotional connections rather than religious connotations, Tàpies' legacy continues to resonate, inviting a broader appreciation for his unique contributions to modern art, particularly in the context of his relationship with Barba.