The Invisible Order: A Spectacular Audiovisual Tribute to Gaudí Illuminates Barcelona's Casa Batlló

The iconic facade of Casa Batlló was recently transformed into a breathtaking canvas of light and sound, marking the grand commencement of the "Gaudi Year" in 2026. This monumental audiovisual projection, titled "The Hidden Order," serves as a centerpiece for the global celebrations honoring the centenary of the legendary architect’s passing. Commissioned by United Visual Artists (UVA) and spearheaded by the acclaimed London-based artist Matt Clark, the installation established a profound and intimate dialogue between light, motion, and the intricate architectural language of Antoni Gaudí.

The performance delved deep into the cyclical nature of existence, exploring complex themes of emergence, chaos, and transformation. These concepts perfectly align with the official motto of the Gaudi Year 2026, "L'ordre invisible" (The Invisible Order), which seeks to uncover the underlying structures within the architect's masterpieces. By utilizing the building's facade as a living organism, the installation invited viewers to reconsider the relationship between the natural world and the built environment through a lens of modern digital artistry.

Matt Clark, the visionary founder of UVA, shared that his creative process was heavily influenced by Gaudí’s own philosophy—specifically the belief that nature is governed by fundamental geometric principles. Clark’s objective was to investigate these hidden systems of creation that Gaudí so masterfully integrated into his work. The resulting composition was a sophisticated blend of geometry and organic patterns, guiding the audience's thoughts through various phases of creation and metamorphosis.

Within this artistic framework, the architecture of Casa Batlló was treated not merely as a backdrop, but as an active, dynamic system. Through the strategic application of light and movement, the structure was visually deconstructed and reassembled in real-time. This approach allowed the audience to witness the building's evolution, highlighting how Gaudí’s structural innovations continue to resonate within the context of contemporary digital exploration and visual storytelling.

A particularly innovative highlight of the spectacle was the integration of a live choreographic performance by the renowned Japanese dancer and artist Fukiko Takase. Her movements were meticulously recorded using advanced motion capture technology, which then served as generative elements for the visual display. As Takase performed, her physical expressions appeared to grow directly from the stone and glass of the facade, creating a seamless expressive system that bridged the gap between the human form, cutting-edge technology, and historic architecture.

The immersive experience was further enriched by a bespoke sound composition crafted by Daniel J. Thibaut, which provided an atmospheric layer to the visual feast. Held as a free public event on February 1 and 2, 2026, the installation also utilized sophisticated augmented reality devices. These digital tools allowed spectators to uncover subtle nuances of the Modernist style and gain a deeper appreciation for Antoni Gaudí’s unique artistic vision and technical precision.

The event drew tens of thousands of visitors to the Passeig de Gràcia, underscoring the immense cultural and historical significance of Casa Batlló within the framework of the city's heritage. As Barcelona embarks on the "Gaudi Year 2026," this installation stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the architect. It successfully combined historical reverence with futuristic innovation, ensuring that the centenary of Gaudí's death is celebrated with the same spirit of boundless creativity that defined his entire career.