Davide Rivalta installs 13 bronze animal sculptures across Stockholm

Italian artist Davide Rivalta (b. 1974, Bologna) has installed 13 monumental bronze sculptures of lions, buffaloes, and rhinoceroses across Stockholm, Sweden, in a project titled "Blowing Figures into Space." Organized by the Italian Cultural Institute in Stockholm under director Francesco Di Lella, the initiative places the artist's signature animal figures in strategic locations including Mynttorget, Gamla Stan, Ladugårdsgärdet, and Hagaparken. The first sculpture was unveiled near the Swedish Parliament on April 21, 2026, during Stockholm Art Week, with additional rhinoceroses placed outside the Italian Cultural Institute. The project will expand on August 29, 2026, with more animals in public parks, and will run until summer 2027. Rivalta's works, known for their inclusive and emotional appeal, engage directly with the urban landscape and architecture, such as the lion at Mynttorget that descends from its pedestal to interact with passersby. The project was made possible with support from the Italian Embassy in Sweden, the C.M. Lerici Foundation, the Swedish Royal Court, the Royal Parks, and the City of Stockholm. Rivalta sees the initiative as a way to bring Italian culture abroad and create a lasting positive impact on residents.