Flexible and independent Art School in Barcelona

Metàfora’s contemporary art activities consist of a range of full time studio-arts programs. Over 4 years of multidisciplinary studio arts program, students work their way from starter’s level to advanced art practice.

Guided by an experienced group of internationally acclaimed artists and curators, students can choose to take the entire training or embark on short term stays from one year down to 6-7 weeks.

Our students build their home in the middle of a friendly, inspiring and intimate community, where artistic freedom is the center of the experience. Metàfora is housed in an old factory complex of more than 1.000 m2, where all students have their own studio spaces. The course offers total immersion in art and culture in Barcelona though studio-visits and taking part in gallery exhibitions.

Classes are in English with 25+ nationalities in the student group.

Foundation Program

All students get their own private studio space with access to courtyards and kitchen facilities. The program contains a series of scheduled workshops in different tools and techniques and a weekly life-drawing class, as well as workshops in Performance, Street Art, Gesture Painting, Land Art etc.

Our Foundation Program is recognized in the UK and many other countries.

Training Program

Metàfora’ Training Program is designed for aspiring artists. Through debates and discussions with our faculty of acclaimed artist and curators, the aim is to help our students into a professional career in the art world.

Students have access to internships in galleries and artist studios, show their work in gallery exhibitions, and work side by side with experienced curators on ambitious shows and events.

Short Term stays

Both the Foundation Program and the Training Program welcome short term students. The academic year is divided into 5 studio blocks, and students can commence their stay at the beginning of each,

Short term students integrate entirely into the program, and have the chance to particpate in all scheduled activities during their stay, including exhibitions and other events.

Artists and art students
from different countries
give Metàfora its distinctive
international atmosphere.

Apply Now!

Feedback on your Profile

Multidisciplinary Studio Arts

At Metàfora we base our vision of art on the concept and it’s form, rather than conventional patterns of fine arts training.
We believe in experimentation and playful investigation, encouraging dialogue and debate within the creative process.
In a truly international atmosphere, students and practicing artists collaborate in creating an experience where artistic investigation and constructive criticism walk hand in hand.

News from Metàfora

Opening of “Deu Graus” the Degree Show 2017

Last places for September 2017

There a very few places left on Metàfora’s Studio Arts Program, commencing September 2017.

Metàfora’s Studio Arts Foundation is for students on starter’s level. Applicants with an intermediate level can apply for Metàfora’s Certificate in Studio Arts (equals to Training Program, level 1).

If you are interested in joining us for long or short term, please contact us as soon as possible.

Art Therapy Foundation Program

In the autumn 2017 Metàfora launches an english speaking version of its traditional foundation programs. This 3 month course has been baptized “Art & Process” and offers its students classes in tools and techniques and studio spaces just as our studio arts students have. Twice a week students on Art & Process have Art Therapy theory, case studies and group tutorials. For more information, please visit