Spirited Cities and City Spirits

The art exhibition “ Spirited Cities and City Spirits” will showcase the works of three very gifted Italian artists: Bruno di Lecce, Pino Oliva, and Silvia Serenari. The aim is to provide the art appreciating public an exposure to the international scene. Despite being a global metropolis t he art scene in Mumbai is dominated by artists from within the city itself. There is hardly any means for the art lovers to acquaint themselves with the different techniques, visual stimulation and thought processes associated with a radically new culture. Hence the exhibition will introduce these international talents to the public, allowing the artists and viewers alike, to be exposed to emerging ideas and changing global trends. The selected works of Bruno di Lecce, Pino Oliva, and Silvia Serenari will be displayed at:

Kamalanayan Bajaj Art Gallery
Bajaj Bhuvan, Nariman Point
Mumbai 400 021

16th – 31st March, 2006

 Opening:

 Friday, 16th March, 6.00 pm onwards

There is a central theme running though the works of all three – architecture! Through the ages man has been obsessed with creating the perfect abode. While earlier, using natural elements like stone, mud, wood, he modeled homes on natural formations, now with the benefit of modern technology and better building materials, our skyscrapers never cease to amaze. Architecture and living are becoming indistinguishable. We do not merely occupy our homes; we live in them. Our homes are a reflection of our personality, our emotions. Each house, each building speaks of an intricate heritage, history walks down the ageless passages. Little wonder that architecture is in itself considered an art. Choosing to interpret their inspiration in different ways is the artist’s prerogative but these three have remained loyal to the thread that binds them together – architecture!

Bruno di Lecce has chosen to let the colours take their own path. Just as no matter how hard Man tries, he can never tame Nature, so too the artist has not tried to tame the colours and they have infused his work with a sense of rebellion and freedom. Aspects of normal, everyday living seem spirited with his treatment of the subject. The linearity of human creation juxtaposed against the wild abandon of Nature compels one to explore his works further.

Pino Olivia’s works are surreal. They speak of a desire of the spirit to be free. Breaking out of the shell of traditional dwellings he portrays the spirit returning to be one with Nature. He has used a wide spectrum of colours in his renditions. An exuberance of unbridled pleasure to be alive amongst the elements radiates from his works.

Slivia Serenari has tapped ancient symbolism to create her work, ranging from the Egyptian to the Celtic. Drawing from the wisdom of the ages, the symbols have an element of the occult. The stars have always governed our destiny and the artist has merged the mystery of the ancient with the structure of the modern.

Together, they represent a tribute to cities man has created and which ultimately overshadow us.

About the artists:

 Bruno di Lecce

 Born on 30 th May 1980 in Matera, he is currently a student of architecture at the University “the Wisdom” of Rome. In 2003-2004 studied in Paris at the école de Paris Belleville where many international artists influenced him. He has participated in many exhibitions in Rome including one in 2002 entitled “Inner-outside” and one in 2003 entitled “Gates - Passages of contemporary art". In January 2005 he was also part of an exposure event in Moscow entitled “Myth and Speed.”

Pino Olivia

Born on 4 th August 1965 in Matera where he lives and works, he is the most experienced amongst the three. He has been showing his works at solo and group exhibitions from 1987. Prominent amongst these are the Special Mention for Premio Celeste (Celestial Prize) 2005, Siena; Cow Parade, Florence in 2005; Officine di Interni Mutinati, Matera ( Italy). He has also participated in numerous art workshops.

Silvia Serenari

Born on 25 th May 1974, she too has a background in architecture. She has participated in numerous solo shows including Diart in Trapani 2005; Teatro Vascello in Rome 2004; and group exhibitions such as Nuit Blanche in Parigi 2005; Notte Bianca Linux Club in Rome 2005. She has also designed the stage settings for theatre productions such as Poesia e destino at the Teatro Argentina in Rome, 2004; Cantieri Pasolini at the Parco di Aguzzano in Roma, 2004.

Note:

Bruno di Lecce, Pino Olivia and Silvia Serenari are promoted internationally by Marella Gallery Milan, and Marella Gallery Beijing. Their dealer is the highly motivated Mr. Francesco Cascino, who handles all their assignments.