I was more than honored to be part of a very important experience, a two-day event that blended art, history and love for my beloved city of Bari. "Lived by Art" was an exhibition of the famous FAI Spring Days, an internationally resonant event dedicated to the protection of our cultural heritage.
Being an artist who deeply loves Bari made this experience even more meaningful for me. I had the privilege of presenting an international premiere of a series of pictorial works dedicated to the great Giacomo Puccini, precisely in the centennial year of his death. The works that make up "Visse d'Arte" are the result of years of passion and dedication to figurative art and music, and being able to share them with the public was a real pleasure for me.
Their choice to include my exhibition in this prestigious event was a human and professional validation for me but also a cementing of my connection to this extraordinary city.
"Visse d'Arte" is my tribute to Puccini's great production and the city of Bari for FAI Spring Days 2024
But "Lived by Art" was more than just an exhibition of canvases. It was a unique occasion of celebration and collaboration among artists, musicians, conductors and institutions. The national committee in agreement with the Council of Ministers chose my exhibition as the only Italian pictorial representation in a year full of celebrations of the highest level dedicated to Puccini. This recognition filled me with pride and gratitude, but above all it made me feel part of something bigger.
The setting for this extraordinary experience in Bari was the new Palazzo Starita, an 18th-century historic jewel that, thanks to the joint efforts of the Region and the Puglia Foundation, will soon be returned to the enjoyment of the citizenry. Admiring the city from the marvelous stained glass windows of this restored palace was a delight for the senses, and added to the charm of the event.
Ultimately, "Lived by Art" was an intersection of artistic, professional and political skills in the most beautiful and free sense of the word, a tangible example of what we can accomplish when we join forces for a common goal. It was a strong convergence of volunteerism and passion, and I believe that events like this are essential for the cultural and social future of our country.
I hope we will have other opportunities to continue to celebrate beauty and art, and to work together to preserve and enhance them for future generations.
General coordination by Iacovelli and Partners.
Ph. Andrea Veneziano
