ARNALDO POMODORO___ THE NEGATION OF FORM
Arnaldo Pomodoro is an Italian sculptor, known for his large-scale metal sculptures and his contributions to the art world. He was born in Morciano, Italy in 1926 and is considered one of the most important Italian sculptors of the 20th century.
Pomodoro’s work is characterised by a focus on the formal aspects of sculpture, particularly the relationships between solid and void and the manipulation of surfaces. He is best known for his series of Spheres, large metal sculptures that feature intricate patterns and textures. Throughout his career, Pomodoro has participated in numerous exhibitions and his work can be found in collections around the world.
Open Studio, the series of exhibitions held in the Master’s studio, is back at the Fondazione Arnaldo Pomodoro, showcasing original pieces, documents, and archives. This exhibition will shed light on the period of 1966-1970, a crucial time in the artist’s career known as the “American years” spent between Italy and the United States. It was the time he taught at Stanford and Berkeley, Pomodoro explored uncharted waters with his artistic experimentation, influenced by minimalism and counterculture.
With over 40 works on display, including sculptures, graphics, drawings, models, and prototypes, the exhibition will be divided into six sections, each delving into a specific aspect of the artist’s life and work.
At the heart of Pomodoro’s art is the negation of form, the exploration of the balance between solids and voids. Between 1966 and 1970, he pushed his experimentation with spherical forms to new heights and created a series of works he referred to as “mental operations”. Visitors will have the chance to see the Rotanti, Forma X, and Onda, as well as a collection of photographs, films, and archive materials showcasing the context and events of Pomodoro’s time.
Pomodoro’s American years were a fusion of artistic and non-artistic stimuli that fuelled his research. The exhibition will feature works by American artist friends, documenting Pomodoro’s role as a passionate teacher and a bridge between the United States and Italy. From his involvement in the counterculture magazine “Che fare” to the open-air exhibitions “A Sculpture in the Street,” the exhibit will highlight Pomodoro’s contributions to the art world.
The exhibition will conclude with “Shaping Negation – La forma negativa (1970),” an experimental film created with friends Ugo Mulas and Francesco Leonetti, a witty portrayal of the artist and the art system, encompassing the highlights of Pomodoro’s work and life during throughout 1966-1970.
The Negation of Form. Arnaldo Pomodoro Between Minimalism and Counterculture is curated by Federico Giani and will be showing from 12 March -28 May 2023 at Fondazione Arnaldo Pomodoro, Via Vigevano 9, Milan, Italy.
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