Art is very deeply rooted in Italy. Italian artists like Michelangelo, Raphael, and Leonardo da Vinchi (often thought of as “The Great Masters”) are the first few that come to mind when people think of the Renaissance. Each one of them have had significant impact on the advancement of art in our history. Their artwork, among other great Italian attractions, has attracted millions of tourists to Italy every year, making Italy the fifth highest tourist earner in the world! Lately, however, high-end fairs that specialize in old masters and antiques have been having trouble retaining and attracting buyers. Which is exactly why Fabrizio Moretti, an old master paintings dealer, decided to invite Jeff Koons, an American artist, to Florence to cut the opening ribbon at the 29th edition of the Biennale International dell’Antiquariato di Firenze and to show two of his sculptures.
Italian poster advertising the appearance of Koons’ artwork in Italy
Scott Rayburn opens his New York Times article, Florence Turns Up the Celebrity Heat, by describing the strange and bizarre placement of Jeff Koon’s sculpture, “Pluto and Prosperina”, outside of the Palazzo Vecchio, which is Florence’s town hall. The piece was strategically placed in between masterpieces by the renown Donatello and Michelangelo, thereby creating a true juxtaposition between the art of the old masters and that of the contemporary. But that stark contrast was exactly the point. Dario Nardella, Florence’s mayor, thought that doing so would “broaden international interest in Italy’s oldest and most prestigious fair devoted to its own historic art!”
Koons’s “Pluto and Prosperina” (center) placed between copies of artwork by Donatello and Michelangelo, at the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, Italy
Both of Koons’s works of art, “Pluto and Prosperina” and “Gazing Ball (Barberini Faun),” are inspired by artwork from the past, specifically artwork by Bernini and Donatello, respectively. When asked about inspiration for his artwork, he said “The way art functions in its connective power is very similar to our genes. Picasso will be referencing El Greco and El Greco will be making another reference. It’s a community. Information is transferred.”
“Pluto and Prosperina” by Koons. Placed outside the Town Hall.
“Gazing Ball (Barberini Faun)” by Koons. Placed inside the Town Hall.
I think Koons makes an interesting point in connecting his artwork with the past. There is something very empowering to think of art as a connection or “linkage” to the artists that were around prior to him, while still being able to advance it in some way or another. What I believe is so special about the art field, unlike other fields or industries, is that the possibilities in which people can create art are endless. It’s impossible for the arts to “die out”, as people will always be finding new ways to present their creativity. Though Italy currently struggles to attract buyers, I think that the combination of artwork from two time periods (Michelangelo and Koons, for example) provides an interesting perspective on the advancement and development of art (while still staying connected to past artists!) and will hopefully help boost the interest of buyers from around the world.
The art itself is very beautiful and interesting, but what is even more so is the strategic placement of his work. It’s important to note that, even as we progress through society and life, references to the past can still be made no matter what. I like that we can connect our daily lives with old art and create new art from those old ideas. Everything in the art world is connected and will hopefully remain that way for as long as possible.
This was a very interesting article to read. It very sad to hear that, although I support and have interest in the new,modern works of art I enjoy very much the original and artworks by these “great masters.” Its also very interesting that you pointed out the fact that they used a modern artists that rooted his creations in originals works to display a juxtaposition between now and then. And the “now” still had root in the “then” and as you say “it’s impossible for the art to “die out”.”
It is an interesting spot to place Koon’s “Pluto and Prosperina” in between the two sculptures by the “Great Masters”. I noticed that the size of the sculptures goes from smallest to the biggest which is pretty pleasing to the eyes. Also all three sculptures are made of different materials which makes each one of them unique. However I don’t understand how placing a newer contemporary sculpture in between two old sculpture can help the high-end fairs that specialize in old masters and antiques in attracting more buyers. It would certainly bring more tourists and attention to the area. I don’t see how high-end buyers would be more likely to buy more masters and antiques though.
I completely agree with your point that art can never die and people will always find new ways to express their creativity. The tastes of the general public change very often and it is up to the artists to cater to those tastes. Trying to relate ones art to previous masters is a great idea and i hope it is fruitful for the artists.
Art lasts forever, thus that is a certain “immortality” for humanity. Through this artists allow us to be inspired to express other forms of creativity that they had previously established. Other wealthy individuals pay great sums to allow those works that awe-struck or interest them to be hanged up in their homes. Thus, by making a connection to old masters makes modern day work very appealing because of the nostalgia.
It’s crazy to think that art is something that will never die. Even though certain trends may come and go, creativity and expression will always fuel people to make art. I think it’s a great idea to place Jeff Koons’ sculptures in between two older ones to link the present and the past together – it shows how artists and styles can intertwine between generations. To see the similarities and differences really humanizes the artists behind the work as well and speaks about their life experiences or inspirations. I hope this brings more people to Italy as well so their art will continue to be appreciated as it should!
It’s quite true that when regular think about classic art most of the great names they will come up with are people with Italian origins. Classical art will never be forgotten but sometimes it could use a little publicity to keep it well known. Sometimes more modern artists need to keep up with the trends to stay relevant but that shouldn’t be seen as a problem.
I can’t say I’ve ever thought about art styles as a trend that could ‘die out’. It would be strange seeing impressionist or renaissance pieces in the 21st century and calling it “modern art”. I think modern art is art that moves away from traditional forms and experiments with new techniques so it’s interesting to find a renewal of tradition in our modern environment. Instead of a clash between past and present, it is a blend. Definitely something to think about.