Gaudí’s portraits: the man seen by the artist
Life of the architect seen through Ricard Opissio, the illustrator who worked on the construction of the Sagrada Família
Who was Ricard Opisso?
Ricard Opisso i Sala (1880-1966) was a renowned painter, illustrator, and caricaturist, well known for his work in Catalan journals at the turn of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. His illustrations graced publications such as Cu-Cut!, El Campéon, Papitu, KDT, and El Caloyo, making significant contributions to the Catalan Art Nouveau, or Modernisme, movement. Opisso began his career at a remarkably young age, showcasing his talents and leaving a lasting impact on the art world.
The early twentieth century was a vibrant period for illustrated comics in Catalonia and Spain. Publications like Cu-Cut!, L’Esquella de la Torratxa, and TBO were central to the cultural landscape, offering social commentary and entertainment. Opisso’s involvement with these magazines linked him to a broader movement of artists who used their craft to reflect and influence public opinion. His drawings provided not only humor but also a critical perspective on contemporary issues, showcasing his versatility and relevance as an artist. His works often depicted everyday life with humor and irony, making him widely popular. He was also a member of the artistic circle Els Quatre Gats, which included notable figures like Pablo Picasso.
Opisso’s relationship with Antoni Gaudí began when he was just twelve years old. In 1892, he started working as an assistant to Gaudí at the Sagrada Família construction site, a role that lasted about ten years. This period was formative for Opisso, providing him with a unique perspective on Gaudí’s work and methods. His time with Gaudí not only influenced his artistic style but also led to a collection of vivid anecdotes and memories that he later documented. Some notable anecdotes include:
“Los Campanarios” (the bell towers)
Opisso recounts a visit by architect Antoni Maria Gallissà to the Sagrada Família, where Gallissà pointed out a lack of symmetry in the bell towers. Gaudí responded that such irregularity could be found even in the Parthenon, highlighting his attention to functional rather than aesthetic perfection.
“Gaudí Andariego” (Gaudí the walker)
Opisso describes Gaudí’s obsession with walking for health, which led them on an exhausting trek up a mountain path. Gaudí believed they were following the path of Saint Severus, showcasing his penchant for historical and natural exploration.
Gaudí’s vegetarianism and Kneipp hydrotherapy
Opisso’s anecdotes also touch on Gaudí’s personal beliefs and lifestyle, including his vegetarian diet and adherence to Kneipp hydrotherapy, reflecting the architect’s holistic approach to life and work.
Besides his early work with Gaudí, he became famous for his satirical and humorous drawings published in popular magazines. His works often reflected social and political themes, capturing the essence of Catalan society. His contributions to TBO, a seminal Spanish comic magazine, further cemented his legacy as a key figure in the world of illustration. Opisso’s art was characterized by its detailed line work and expressive characters, making his style easily recognizable.
