Aldo Mondino's 'Merci Satie' Explores Music as Absence in Bologna
From June 3 to September 30, 2026, Galleria de' Foscherari in Bologna will host 'Merci Satie,' a solo exhibition that delves into Aldo Mondino's musical influences through Erik Satie. This exhibit examines the ability of painting to embody sound, rhythm, and movement, with Satie's compositions serving as a cultural backdrop for Mondino's work. The first section displays paper pieces such as 'Léger comme un oeuf' and 'merci Satie,' created using collage techniques. The second section features 'Viola d’amore' (1985) and 'Serra' (2004), which emphasize sonic absence. Additionally, the Eastern segment highlights Sufi artworks, drawing inspiration from the Mevlevi order's Sema dance, showcasing Mondino's innovative use of materials and cultural integration.
Key facts
- Exhibition 'Merci Satie' runs from June 3 to September 30, 2026 at Galleria de' Foscherari in Bologna.
- The show explores Aldo Mondino's relationship with music, centered on composer Erik Satie.
- Works include 'Léger comme un oeuf', 'Piano… piano', 'Erik Satie… son temp e ses ami', 'merci Satie', 'Ritratto di Erik', and 'Satie – ritratto di Apollinaire'.
- Sculpture 'Viola d’amore' (1985) is a bronze open instrument case with no instrument inside.
- Work 'Serra' (2004) features orchids behind a grid.
- Dervish-themed works include 'Sufi Fleur' and multiple versions of 'Dervisci'.
- Mondino invited dervishes to perform live at the 1993 Venice Biennale Italian Pavilion.
- Mondino used non-traditional materials like linoleum, ceramic, and chocolates.
Entities
Artists
Institutions
- Galleria de' Foscherari
- Juliet Art Magazine
- Biennale di Venezia
Locations
- Bologna
- Italy
- Venice