Boetti's Mappe as Precursor to Relational Art
The article explores the concept of "relationship" in contemporary art, tracing its roots to Expressionism and the avant-garde movements of the early 20th century. It argues that the integration of life into art culminated in the 1960s with conceptual art, where audience participation became central. Alighiero Boetti's Mappe series (1971–72) is presented as a precursor to relational art. Boetti conceived these embroidered world maps as social interstices, delegating their execution to a collective of Afghan embroiderers. The work embodies a dual form: the aesthetic-material result and the relational process among the embroiderers. Boetti's approach breaks down national boundaries through symbolic flags and colors, fostering empathy and connections. The article references Michel Maffesoli's concept of reliance to explain this power.
Key facts
- The concept of relationship in art emerged from a need to connect art with life.
- Expressionism marked the beginning of integrating life into art.
- The 1960s conceptual art movement involved audience participation.
- Alighiero Boetti started the Mappe series in 1971.
- The Mappe were embroidered by Afghan women.
- Boetti's work is seen as a precursor to relational art.
- The Mappe feature political world maps with flags and colors.
- Michel Maffesoli's concept of reliance is cited.
Entities
Artists
- Alighiero Boetti
- Floriana Farano
- Michel Maffesoli
Institutions
- Accademia di Belle Arti di Foggia
- Artribune
Locations
- Foggia
- Italy
- Afghanistan