Alessandro Pessoli's 'Testa Cristiana' at Milan's Chiostri di Sant'Eustorgio

Alessandro Pessoli (Cervia, 1963) presents 'Testa Cristiana', a solo exhibition curated by Eva Fabbris at the Chiostri di Sant'Eustorgio in Milan, running until November 28. The show features twelve materially rich works that blend Byzantine mosaic iconography with Californian styles and colors. Pessoli, returning to Milan after a decade in Los Angeles, explores themes of spirituality, life, and death. Works like 'Edicola #1' and 'Edicola #2' contrast with the ornate Cappella Portinari and liturgical golds. The exhibition spans the Museo della Basilica, Museo Diocesano Carlo Maria Martini, and the paleochristian cemetery. Notable pieces include 'Testa che piange e sorride' (2008), 'Bucaneve' (2008), 'Testa Cristiana ‒ derisione' (2018), and 'Teste Cristiane Trittico' (2018). A book by Lenz featuring a dialogue between Pessoli and Pier Paolo Campanini will be released in October. Pessoli emphasizes the natural connection of his works to Italian roots while incorporating American elements like spray paint and acid colors. The exhibition took five years to organize due to complexities of installing contemporary art in churches. Pessoli aims to mend the frayed bond between church and contemporary art, making it accessible to non-specialists. The show includes works such as 'Martire delle Farfalle' (2020), 'Lacrime e cera' (2018), 'S. Ambrogio fiorito' (2020), and 'Figura che torna' (2018).