Mariagrazia Pontorno's Nobilis Golden Moon: Second Stage in Valencia

Mariagrazia Pontorno's project Nobilis Golden Moon, part of Maritima01 curated by Elena Posokhova, explores the relationship between science and tradition through the endangered Pinna Nobilis, a giant Mediterranean mussel threatened by a pandemic disease. The project is developed in collaboration with University of Valencia, Botanical Garden, Visit Valencia Foundation, Hyundai Valencia, French Institute, EASD, Nau or Carmen Center of Contemporary Culture, and Acqua Foundation. Pontorno creates a modular, semi-autobiographical video reportage blending childhood memories and dreams, influenced by the moon's role in the mollusk's vital rhythms—a sensitivity noted by both Valencia scientists and masters working with byssus, a golden thread produced by the mussel. The first stage took place in Valencia; the second will occur in August in Sardinia. Pontorno's diary details her experiences: visiting the Ceramics Museum, meeting curator Elena Posokhova at Mercado Colón, and filming at Imedmar marine research center near Alicante with scientists Jose Tena and Jose Rafa. The team also explored the sea by boat, with the artist reflecting on the moon's magnetic pull that inspired the project.