In a marriage between the old and the new, Bombas Gens stands out as the epitome of Valencia’s claim to be World Capital of Design. Daniel Hazelhoff reports…
Bombas Gens stands out as the epitome of Valencia’s claim to be World Capital of Design. In 1930, architect Cayetano Borso di Carminati designed the Bombas Gens factory for Carlos Gens, because he needed a new headquarters for his hydraulic pump company. This industrial project would stand out as a gem in the Capital Del Turia. Its art-deco style makes its mark on the distinct architecture of Valencia. Bombas Gens is one of the last examples of industrial architecture of the time.
During the Spanish Civil War, the name Bombas Gens took on a whole new meaning. The Republicans took over the space for the purpose of bomb production. The anti-fascist movement intended to use said bombs against the Franquistas. From there it became an anti-aircraft shelter and soon succumbed to abandonment and ruin.
A bespoke art museum
Then in 1991 its doors officially closed. However, three entrepreneurs decided against such waste and teamed together. Architect Annabelle Selldorf, Eduardo Miguel and Ramón Esteve took it upon themselves to turn the space into what it is today. A bespoke art museum, open to the public.
The complex also hosts a restaurant, run by Valencia’s very own Michelin-starred chef, Ricard Camarena. Meals can range from €60-€155 per person. Granted, given that it boasts two Michelin Stars and three Repsol Suns. “The menu at Ricard Camarena Restaurant is a successful combination of taste, absolute respect for the product, and understated creative cuisine grounded in tradition,” according to Ricard Camarena’s website.
The combination of high gastronomy and art have always come hand in hand, and here, it seems they become one.
The rehabilitation of the Bombas Gens boasts a back patio, designed in part by Ramón Esteve and landscaper Gustavo Marina. The patio is also home to site-specific, a sculpture by Cristina Iglesias.
An oppression-free place of modern expression
The patio leads to the 15th-century bodega and the anti-aircraft bunker of the civil war. Visitors can revel in the beauty of the old and updated architecture via green gardens, and a paradise-like atmosphere.
The wide-open spaces and carefully selected art gives a feeling of class and openness, an oppression-free place of modern expression.
The museum aspect of the complex has been set up and designed by Annabelle Selldorf. Each space was taken into consideration.
“They weren’t looking for a designer to just sensationalise the building,” says Selldorf.
“We needed to embrace the complex’s history, and character, and incorporate new strength into its redevelopment,” she adds.
“I think architecture comes to life and is completed by those who use it. Bombas Gens has been a very gratifying project, where people can enjoy its architecture, its programmes, and the museum” she continues.
Vicent Todolí, ex-director of the iconic Tate Modern on London’s South Bank, has helped acquire the pieces the museum displays. The work of 20th-century photographers Walker Evans and Garry Winogrand are examples of the high-end and eclectic collection held at Bombas Gens. More modern pieces by painters Anna-Eva Bergman, Esteban Vicente, and Juan Uslé also call the museum their home. Bombas gens also houses sculptures by aforementioned Cristina Iglesias and sculptor Juan Muñoz.
Since its opening, Bombas Gens has shown 19 exhibitions, with almost 30,000 attendees. Some 473 activities have been held in the complex, including workshops, and guided tours.
Bombas Gens doesn’t exist alone
The whole concept is inclusive. Therefore, people from all ages and walks of life can enjoy Bombas Gens without fear of exorbitant entry prices. General tickets go from €8 for adults, and €4.50 for children. Social interaction and community seem to be at the forefront of its identity. Almost 200,000 visitors have passed through Bombas Gens since it opened.
But Bombas Gens doesn’t exist alone. As a part of La Fundació Per Amor a L’Art, its motivations started first with family. The need to share with society “through art, research, and social action” according to the Bomba Gens website. Working side by side, Bombas Gens plan exhibitions and catered events. All have social and societal motives in their DNA.
“La Fundació Per Amor a l’Art is a family project built on hope and a sense of responsibility to share with society part of that which has been given to us,” says the Bombas Gens website..
“Beginning in 2014, a series of initiatives that started ten years earlier have all led us to help others. These activities have steadily increased and diversified. The creation of the foundation was the most logical step in order to improve the management and reach of all these projects,” Bombas Gens state.
Find out more about exhibitions and future programmes at Bombas Gens in Valencia here.
- Avenida de Burjassot, 54, 46009 València, Valencia; 963 46 38 56; Wednesday to Saturday 11:00 – 14:00 and 16:00 – 19:00; but it is closed on Monday and Tuesday.
- Ticket prices: €8 for adults; €4.50 for Children under 12, also for holders of the Valencia Tourist Card, Carnet Jove holders, students of up to 26 years, adults above 65, unemployed individuals, and functionally diverse individuals
- Visit the World Capital of Design site here
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