Michelangelo Pistoletto's 1960s-70s Political Mirror Works Examined in Intimate Gallery Setting
The exhibition titled Pistoletto Politico showcases seven creations by Michelangelo Pistoletto, featuring six mirror artworks from the politically tumultuous 1960s and 1970s in Italy. Key pieces include Comizio X (1965), Bandiera Rossa (Comizio I) (1966), and La Gabbia (1967–74), which incorporate red flags and mirrored bars as powerful symbols. Located in an inviting first-floor gallery, the display resonates with Martha Rosler's House Beautiful series. Pistoletto's pieces, such as Uomo Che Aggiusta un Camion (1967), focus on abstraction and silhouettes. His mirror works invite viewers to contemplate their societal roles. Advocating for artistic freedom over strict politics, Pistoletto remains significant amid Italy's ongoing political challenges. This article was originally published in May 2013.
Key facts
- The exhibition Pistoletto Politico includes seven works from the 1960s and 1970s.
- Six of the works are mirror pieces, featuring political symbols like red flags and prison bars.
- Key works include Comizio X (1965), Bandiera Rossa (Comizio I) (1966), and La Gabbia (1967–74).
- The show is held in a cozy first-floor gallery, contrasting with typical museum settings.
- Pistoletto's compositions use stark silhouettes and near-monochrome backgrounds to highlight color.
- Mirror works reflect viewers and incorporate blank spaces to involve them in the art.
- Pistoletto advocates for artistic freedom and a blend of art and politics in his maxim.
- The article was first published in May 2013.
Entities
Artists
- Michelangelo Pistoletto
- Martha Rosler
Institutions
- ArtReview
Locations
- Italy