Mercat de Valors

What can never be for sale? Are places made by currency or culture? This 3D mural investigates the ‘market of values’ in ever-evolving Barcelona.

Set to be completed in October 2026, this legacy artwork that has been unfolding since June 2016. Starting from the saddle of a borrowed bicicleta, this project is an ambitious exploration of how cities can be shared.

As often happens, the wall talked first, catching the eye of Patricio, and coaxing him to give this slightly forgotten corner of Barcelona a chance to tell it’s story. After gaining support from Barcelona’s local authority, Patricio began the artistic participation process.

With the help of local 11 year olds from Escola Àngel Baixeras, a story was uncovered. The children highlighted the complexities of living somewhere so intensely affected by mass tourism. An issue that has only grown in significance alongside this project and the children who started it - now 21 years of age!

An impressive project comes with impressive problems. The historic central location came with a confusing set of ownership issues and many, many setbacks. Now ten years on, the project is set to be completed in October 2026.

The three-dimensional awnings invite passersby into an imaginary skyward marketplace, appearing and disappearing among the trees in the square.

A market without tangible products, invites reflection:
What do we want to keep outside commercial exchange?

A space where ideas, experiences, values, dreams and feelings are exchanged instead of currency.

How do we want to share the city?