Emilio Isgrò, a prominent figure in contemporary art, is set to showcase his works in a new exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MACC) in Scicli, Italy. The museum, located in the historic ex Convento del Carmine, will officially open its doors on May 5, 2025, at 11:30 AM, marking a significant cultural event for the region.
The exhibition titled "L’Opera delle formiche" is curated by Marco Bazzini and Bruno Corà, and it will be open to the public from May 6 to November 3, 2025. This exhibition is a celebration of Isgrò's artistic journey, featuring works from the 1960s to his recent explorations of Cancellation, a signature technique that has defined his career.
Isgrò, born on October 6, 1937, in Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto (Messina), has a rich history in the art world, having participated in the Venice Biennale multiple times, including in 1972, 1978, 1986, and 1993. His works have evolved over the decades, reflecting a deep engagement with themes of identity and memory.
The upcoming exhibition will include a large installation called "L’Opera delle formiche," which symbolizes the industriousness of the Sicilian people. This piece transforms the museum's central corridor, allowing swarms of ants to spill into the piazza, creating a striking visual metaphor for labor and creativity.
In addition to this installation, the exhibition will showcase a variety of Isgrò's works from private collections, including notable pieces like "Non schiacciatemi per favore," dedicated to kindness and created for the Fondazione Amplifon. Another highlight will be a new installation of "Non uccidere," now part of the Maxxi collection, and "La lumière de la Liberté," which was first exhibited in 2017 at the Galleria Tornabuoni in Paris.
Isgrò's artistic philosophy is deeply intertwined with his Sicilian roots. He reflects on his identity, stating, "I am not a Sicilianist but a Sicilian," emphasizing his connection to the island while also acknowledging the complexities of his relationship with it. His works often explore the dichotomy between local identity and broader cultural narratives, a theme that resonates deeply within the context of contemporary Sicily.
The MACC's opening is not just a celebration of Isgrò's work but also a revival of a historical site that has been closed for sixty years. The restoration of the ex Convento del Carmine represents a commitment to cultural enrichment and community engagement in Scicli, a town known for its baroque architecture and artistic heritage.
As Isgrò prepares for this significant exhibition, he reflects on the evolution of Sicilian identity in the contemporary world. He believes that Sicily must embrace its potential for change and growth, moving beyond the metaphorical representations of the past. He asserts, "The Sicily that works and produces must be recognized as a vital player in Europe," highlighting the need for the island to assert its place on the global stage.
In a recent conversation with a friend who is well-versed in economics, Isgrò expressed optimism about Sicily's future, stating, "Artists carry within them a vocation for change that does not allow them to succumb to the evidence of stagnation. Nothing prevents Sicily from being ready for an epochal change." His words resonate with a sense of hope and determination, urging both artists and the community to take action and embrace transformation.
The exhibition "L’Opera delle formiche" promises to be a profound exploration of Isgrò's artistic legacy and a celebration of Sicilian culture. It invites visitors to engage with the themes of industriousness, creativity, and identity, fostering a dialogue about the role of art in society.
As the MACC prepares for its grand opening, the excitement in Scicli is palpable. The town, which has become a hub for contemporary art, continues to attract attention for its vibrant cultural scene. The inauguration of the MACC is a testament to the community's dedication to promoting artistic expression and preserving its rich history.
In the midst of this cultural renaissance, Scicli stands as a beacon of artistic innovation and a reminder of the power of creativity to inspire change. The MACC, with its focus on contemporary art, is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the arts in Sicily.
With the opening of the MACC and the exhibition of Emilio Isgrò's works, the stage is set for a new chapter in the story of Sicilian art. This event not only honors Isgrò's contributions but also reinforces the importance of cultural institutions in fostering creativity and dialogue within the community.
As visitors flock to the MACC, they will have the opportunity to witness the evolution of Isgrò's work and the vibrant artistic landscape of Sicily. The exhibition is more than just a showcase of art; it is a celebration of identity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the Sicilian people.
