Dry Stone Library

The library of the poet and art critic Vicenç Altaió is a boundless accumulation of experiences, where the book is the place for the settlement of words. Communication with them is never-ending; if you listen closely, you can hear the authors’ voices, holding out for the passage of history, patiently waiting to be reread by younger generations. A few of them go beyond the limits of the “closed-book syndrome”, reviving performatively in space and time.

The Museu Tàpies presents the most recent film by Joan Vall Karsunke, known for his work in documentary and experimental cinema, with a focus on cultural memory, philosophical reflection and the poetics of imagery. In this work, the filmmaker explores the library of the poet and essayist Vicenç Altaió, capturing the essence of the person through profound conversations and a carefully-crafted aesthetic. The film defines itself as a road-book movie, featuring the intervention of 23 figures from the world of art, music and literature.

After the screening, a conversation will take place between the director, Joan Vall Karsunke; the film’s editor, Ginebra Vall; and the writer Vicenç Altaió.

Credits:

Biblioteca de pedra seca [Dry Stone Library]

Joan Vall Karsunke, 2025, Catalonia, Catalan version, 98 min, DCP.

With the participation of Perejaume, Josep M. Sala-Valldaura, Valentina Valentini, Alfredo Pirri, Mario Gas, Biel Mesquida, Albert Serra, Stella Rahola, Frederic Amat, Pere Noguera, Blanca Llum Vidal, Jordi Cuixart, Hannah Collins, Alfredo Jaar, Miquel Barceló, Fina Miralles and Laia Estruch.

Music: Nicolas Jaar, Carles Santos, Llorenç Balsach, Marina Herlop and Pascal Comelade.