Extremaduran muralist Jonatan Carranza, artistically known as Sojo, is nearing completion of his intervention on the facade of the Sant Joan university residence in Reus. The creation, celebrating the Gaudí Year, features iconic elements such as a portrait of the architect, his hands, the rose of Reus, the hazelnut, the sea of Camp de Tarragona, trencadís mosaic, the Gaudinian tower, the Sagrada Família, and Casa Vicens.
According to Sojo, inspiration stems from the emotional connection to the subject and the location. "I want to show where Gaudí's heart was, and in his heart is Reus," states the artist, emphasizing how origins and roots inevitably translate into creative work. For this sketch, Sojo immersed himself in the architect's life and work, delving into his relationship with the capital of Baix Camp, his family's coppersmith trade, and the influence of Reus's textile factories on his style.
The mural, spanning nearly 140 square meters near the parish of Sant Joan Baptista, integrates elements from Camp de Tarragona with renowned works by Gaudí. Although the concrete wall is modern, Sojo aimed for "maximum possible integration" with the surroundings, selecting a color palette that harmonizes with the adjacent temple. For instance, Gaudí's figure is rendered in gray tones for better visual adaptation.
Sojo's objective is for Reus to "adopt" the modernist genius, bringing him closer to the citizens through a portrait that conveys proximity and sensitivity. "I present him very honestly, looking directly at the viewer with a humble gesture: one hand touches his heart, and the other offers his work," the artist explains.
The official inauguration is scheduled for Saturday, June 6th. The artwork will combine drawing elements, simulating blueprint projects, with snapshots aiming to reflect Gaudí's lifelong dedication to architecture, understood as a "gift" to the world. The mural's title, 'Gaudí, from Reus to the world,' encapsulates this purpose.
Furthermore, the project, promoted by the Associació Amics de Gaudí de Reus, will have a second phase led by digital artist Gala Mirissa (Gala Reglero). Through 3D and augmented reality, the mural is intended to "come to life," breaking the barrier of physical space and transforming it into a work "without an expiration date," resistant to climatic effects.
