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Pedro Azara Publishes 'Babia, a lo lejos,' a Glossary-Guide on Art Theory and Interpretation

publication · 2026-04-09

Pedro Azara, an architect and educator at the Barcelona School of Architecture, has published 'Babia, a lo lejos. Un glosario-guía para no perderse el arte.' This work acts as a compendium on art and architectural theory, presenting notes organized alphabetically that outline criteria and concepts for understanding artistic expression across various cultures. It ends with a thought-provoking paradox regarding an angel's quiet journey to Babia, a place reminiscent of Neverland—distant yet reachable. The book delves into the essence of art, highlighting the necessity of focused attention to interpret sensations while also questioning the nature of artistic creation. Azara is also known for his previous works, including 'La imagen y el olvido' (1995), 'La mirada atenta' (2021), and 'La ciudad de los días lejanos' (2024). He curated the Catalan Pavilion at the 2019 Venice Art Biennale and served as an advisor to IVAM, Valencia from 2020 to 2022.

Key facts

  • Pedro Azara is an architect and professor of aesthetics and art theory at the Barcelona School of Architecture.
  • He published the book 'Babia, a lo lejos. Un glosario-guía para no perderse el arte.'
  • The book is a breviary on teaching art and architectural theory, with alphabetically ordered notes from classes.
  • It discusses criteria and concepts for appreciating and studying artistic creation across cultures and time.
  • Babia is metaphorically described as a dreamlike place similar to Neverland or Wonderland.
  • Azara authored previous books including 'La imagen y el olvido' (1995) and 'La mirada atenta' (2021).
  • He was responsible for the Catalan Pavilion at the 2019 Venice Art Biennale.
  • He served as an advisor to IVAM, Valencia from 2020 to 2022.

Entities

Artists

  • Pedro Azara

Institutions

  • Escuela Técnica Superior de Arquitectura de Barcelona
  • Bienal de Arte de Venecia
  • IVAM
  • Siruela
  • Ediciones UPC
  • Ediciones Asimétricas

Locations

  • Barcelona
  • Spain
  • Madrid
  • Valencia
  • Venice
  • Italy

Sources