Franco Mulas (1938–2023): A Life of Figurative Commitment and Unaging Spirit

Franco Mulas, born in Rome in 1938 and died in 2023, is remembered by critic Roberto Gramiccia as an artist who never aged in spirit or practice. Despite his 85 years and chronic health issues, Mulas maintained youthful energy and relentless artistic exploration. He was a leading figure in the 'Figurazione di impegno' movement in Rome and Milan during the 1960s and 1970s, alongside Renzo Vespignani, Ennio Calabria, Guccione, and Gianfranco Ferroni. His work combined technical virtuosity with ethical-political engagement, addressing societal and environmental crises. Key series include the 'Schegge' (Splinters) with masks and machines, 'Spaesaggi' (Displacements) exhibited at Museo Bilotti in 2013, and 'Calendari' (Calendars) evoking Corrado Cagli. He also created homages to Carlo Levi. Mulas received numerous accolades: a major retrospective at Palazzo Braschi in Rome, participation in Biennali, the Premio Presidente della Repubblica for painting, and membership in the Accademia di San Luca. His last exhibition was 'L'Osteria dei pittori', a collective show at Palazzo dei Capitani del Popolo in Ascoli Piceno, where he contributed a work on a restaurant napkin. Gramiccia recalls Mulas's joy seeing his piece displayed, describing his eyes as those of a young great painter.