Marina Ripa di Meana: A Life of Art, Activism, and Unconventional Spirit Remembered

Laura Cherubini honors the memory of Marina Ripa di Meana, who passed away in 2018, reminiscing about her beauty, intellect, and artistic contributions. The two first crossed paths in Venice in 1978 during Carlo Ripa di Meana's tenure as president of the Venice Biennale, where Marina captivated Cherubini with her sharp wit and extensive art knowledge. Cherubini concurs with Giampiero Mughini's assertion that Marina was the most intelligent woman he had ever encountered. Despite speculation, she was active in fashion and communication. Carlo made notable contributions to the Biennale, particularly the 1974 edition focused on Chile and the 1976 Biennale of Dissent. Marina shared a story about a 1966 painting involving Franco Angeli and Jack Kerouac. She advocated for animal rights, opposed cancer frauds, and encouraged informing terminally ill patients about alternatives to suicide. Her final words were, "What a pity, I had bought you oysters!"