Pablo Atchugarry's 'Scolpire la Luce' at Rome's GNAMC

The Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Moderna e Contemporanea (GNAMC) in Rome presents 'Scolpire la Luce' (Carving Light), a major exhibition dedicated to Uruguayan-Italian sculptor Pablo Atchugarry, running until June 21. Curated by Gabriele Simongini, the show features 55 works created over the last 30 years, marking Atchugarry's return to Rome after a decade. The exhibition highlights Atchugarry's signature use of Carrara marble and the subtractive carving method, transforming the stone's hardness into seemingly soft, light-filled forms. Slender, sinuous shapes with fissures and folds capture light, making the marble appear vibrant. Alongside marble, works in wood, alabaster, bronze, and steel demonstrate his versatility. A notable aspect is the dialogue with the museum's permanent collection, where Atchugarry's sculptures engage with 20th-century masters like Jean Arp, Lucio Fontana, Alberto Giacometti, and Henry Moore. GNAMC director Renata Cristina Mazzantini notes that in Atchugarry's sculptures, the hardness of marble softens.