Italian Art Identity: Between Metaphysics and Progress

Anselm Kiefer has made a significant mark by becoming the first contemporary artist allowed to cover ancient masterpieces in the Palazzo Ducale, using black cloth to obscure Tintoretto's works. This provocative act, referred to as 'killing his masters,' reflects Kiefer's exploration of national identity and history, especially concerning Nazism. The artwork examines Italian artistic identity, drawing on Benedetto Croce’s views about how national identity is linked to history. It also highlights nine renowned Italian artists who shared local stories: Boccioni, Balla, Mario Sironi, de Chirico, Morandi, Burri, Manzoni, Fontana, and Cattelan. The piece suggests that Italian identity is shaped by both metaphysical and progressive influences, with differing views from Jean Clair and Germano Celant contributing to the discussion. Ultimately, it argues that contemporary Italian art struggles because it lacks connection to the sacred and metaphysical roots of Italian culture.