Maria Lai's Milan Exhibition Explores Myth, Folklore, and Literary Ties
The M77 gallery in Milan is hosting a solo exhibition of Maria Lai (1919–2013), the Sardinian artist known for her experimental methods and deep connection to local culture. Titled 'Maria Lai. Il tempo dell'incalcolabile', the show draws inspiration from the writings of Salvatore Cambosu, a close friend and writer, particularly his novel 'Cuore Mio' and the character Maria Pietra. The exhibition features Lai's signature works: hanging 'Teli' (cloths), 'Il libro di Maria Pietra' (an embroidered parchment), and 'Telai' (looms). It also documents her landmark public art project 'Legarsi alla montagna' (1981) through photographs by Piero Berengo Gardin. A documentary by Tonino Casula contextualizes Lai's practice, which anticipated relational art by emphasizing community and collective living. The exhibition runs at M77 in Milan.
Key facts
- Maria Lai was born in Ulassai in 1919 and died in Cardedu in 2013.
- The exhibition is titled 'Maria Lai. Il tempo dell'incalcolabile'.
- It is held at Galleria M77 in Milan.
- The show is inspired by Salvatore Cambosu's novel 'Cuore Mio'.
- Works include 'Teli', 'Il libro di Maria Pietra', and 'Telai'.
- 'Legarsi alla montagna' (1981) is documented by Piero Berengo Gardin's photographs.
- A documentary by Tonino Casula is part of the exhibition.
- Lai's work is considered a precursor to relational art.
Entities
Artists
- Maria Lai
- Salvatore Cambosu
- Piero Berengo Gardin
- Tonino Casula
Institutions
- M77
Locations
- Milan
- Italy
- Ulassai
- Cardedu