In the heart of Perugia, in the historic rooms of Palazzo Baldeschi, the exhibition "St Francis. Our Contemporary between Art and Spirituality” will run from 18 April to 1 November.
In collaboration with the National Gallery of Umbria
Promoted by the Fondazione Perugia and curated by Costantino D’Orazio, the project celebrates the 800th anniversary of the death of St Francis of Assisi with a fresh and deeply contemporary perspective. Inviting the public to explore the figure of the Saint not only as a historical and religious icon, but as a universal symbol capable of engaging with contemporary sensibilities, the itinerary stems from a collaboration with the National Gallery of Umbria.
Different artistic languages and generations of artists
What makes this exhibition particularly fascinating is its ability to intertwine contemporary art and spirituality, bringing together different artistic languages and generations of artists. The works of leading figures from the 20th century and the early 2000s offer profound and sometimes surprising interpretations of Franciscan values: a harmonious relationship with nature, poverty as an ethical choice, care for the least among us, and the quest for authenticity.
Michelangelo Pistoletto Venere degli stracci ph credits: Archivio Pistoletto Biella
Also works by Chagall, Picasso and Gauguin
Among the artists featured, names such as Alberto Burri stand out, with his humble yet highly symbolic materials; Michelangelo Pistoletto, creator of the famous ‘Venus of the Rags’; and Marina Abramović, who explores the spiritual dimension through the body and presence. Alongside them, figures such as Giuseppe Penone, Maurizio Cattelan and Omar Galliani help to weave a collective narrative, rich in evocative imagery. The exhibition is further enriched by historical works and prestigious loans from institutions such as the MAXXI and the Pinacoteca Nazionale in Bologna, as well as the Custody of the Sacred Convent of Assisi. Particularly significant is the presence of artists such as Marc Chagall, Pablo Picasso and Paul Gauguin, whose graphic works further expand the dialogue between eras and visions.
For information: www.fondazioneperugia.it
