Alessandro Valeri's 'De Via Lactea' Illuminates Lecce's Castello Carlo V with Neon Words
In Lecce, Italy, Italian artist Alessandro Valeri presented a neon artwork called 'De Via Lactea' on the exterior of Castello Carlo V. This installation showcases the words 'Life', 'Milk', and 'Love' and is part of the national initiative Ierofania – Sulle vie del Sacro, overseen by curator Giorgio Calcara and supported by the Italian Ministry of Culture. Positioned above a statue of Venus, the piece invites reflection on themes of birth, nourishment, and love, bridging the gap between ancient and modern art. Ierofania is ongoing from July to September at various archaeological sites throughout Italy. Valeri's creation enriches historical architecture and encourages collective reflection, linking the past with the present.
Key facts
- Alessandro Valeri created a neon installation titled 'De Via Lactea' on the facade of Castello Carlo V in Lecce.
- The installation features three words: Life, Milk, Love.
- The work is part of the national project Ierofania – Sulle vie del Sacro.
- The exhibition is curated by Giorgio Calcara.
- Ierofania is promoted by the Italian Ministry of Culture.
- The installation is placed above a statue of Venus, goddess of love and fertility.
- The project runs from July to September and includes sites in Palestrina, Paestum, Lecce, Matera, Locri, and Giardini Naxos.
- The title Ierofania references Mircea Eliade's concept of hierophany.
Entities
Artists
- Alessandro Valeri
Institutions
- Ministero della Cultura
- Castello Carlo V
Locations
- Lecce
- Italy
- Palestrina
- Paestum
- Matera
- Locri
- Giardini Naxos