Vittorio Sgarbi, the renowned art critic, is currently hospitalized at the Policlinico Gemelli in Rome, battling a severe depressive crisis. His troubling health condition has sparked concern among friends and colleagues, especially considering the newfound complications following a history of health issues.
As of March 24, 2025, Sgarbi has been experiencing significant challenges, including a refusal of food leading to notable weight loss. Doctors are closely monitoring his condition while they await further medical updates.
Among his supporters, writer and friend Marcello Veneziani has taken a public stance by publishing an emotional appeal titled, "Vorrei gridare al mio amico Sgarbi ‘rialzati e cammina, capra!’" on the front page of the daily newspaper La Verità. In his heartfelt letter, Veneziani urges Sgarbi to fight through this difficult period, reflecting a long-standing friendship filled with respect and admiration.
Veneziani, who has known Sgarbi for many years, characterizes him as a unique talent with an intuitive ability to attribute art pieces and recognize artists. However, he is also deeply aware of Sgarbi's struggles, asserting that his current depression stems from a "wounded narcissism—figlia del suo narcisismo ferito." He highlights Sgarbi's sense of lost freedoms, noting, "ha la percezione che molte delle sue libertà impulsive non potranno più essere praticate," elaborating that Sgarbi's universe seems to be contracting, which is particularly dramatic for a figure so accustomed to commanding his world.
In an interview with Corriere della Sera, Veneziani elaborated on the psychological aspect of Sgarbi's crisis and expressed cautious optimism for a resurgence. He stated, "Ma conoscendo Vittorio non escludo affatto un risorgimento personale," indicating he believes Sgarbi still has the potential to reclaim his former vigor and vitality.
Veneziani proposed that this restoration must occur through a significant transformation, which he calls a "piccola morte." This concept refers to letting go of the current self, the 'Vittorio Uno', to welcome a new phase of life—the 'Vittorio Due'. He insists this journey involves shifting one's self-view from an egocentric perspective to one more aligned with reality.
Furthermore, Veneziani emphasizes the importance of art in Sgarbi's recovery process, encouraging him to reconnect with the great masters like Caravaggio and Raphael. "Il suo rapporto con loro dovrebbe riportarlo in piedi," he asserts, believing that engaging once again with classical art can stimulate Sgarbi’s revitalization.
Amid these difficult tribulations, Sgarbi's close circle has expressed concern. His partner, Sabrina, and sister, Elisabetta, are particularly worried about his well-being. Veneziani expressed their whose emotions in his letter, stating, "C’è chi gli è vicino con apprensione nel dolore." Through unwavering support from loved ones and the community, they aim to bolster Sgarbi’s resolve against this fierce adversary, depression.
Recalling how Sgarbi's charisma once ignited passionate responses, Veneziani points to the emotional transformations that stem from love and friendship. While he recognizes the deep emotional turmoil Sgarbi faces, he insists on the imperative of hope and resilience. "La depressione è purtroppo un’ottima alleata della malattia. Ma conoscendo Vittorio… penso che potrebbe riuscire a ritrovare il giusto impeto per riprendere la sua strada."
As the situation remains delicate, friends and family hope for positive progress. They have seen recovery in the past—Veneziani even pointed out that the Gemelli hospital was once the place where Pope Francis was treated successfully. They hold onto the wish that Sgarbi, too, will emerge from this dark chapter.
With a resolute spirit and strong connections, the plea from Veneziani rings clear: waver not in despair, but rise once more. The journey ahead will not be easy, but the love and encouragement from friends could provide the strength needed to forge new paths and discover renewed purpose. After all, as Veneziani aptly puts it, life may fade, but the great works of art endure.
