Mike Nelson Transforms Parma's Palazzo dell'Agricoltore into 'The House of the Farmer'
British artist Mike Nelson has reimagined the Palazzo dell'Agricoltore in Parma, presenting it as 'The House of the Farmer.' Curated by Didi Bozzini, the exhibition showcases sculptural components such as axes, rocks, and rusty steel bars, all obtained from a local reclaimed site. Notably, Nelson's work features hats, which he consistently leaves behind in two different areas. This installation pays homage to the building's past as the former headquarters of the Fascist-era Farmers' Corporation. Bozzini proposes three interpretive avenues: reflections on historical-political themes, interactions between Nelson's art and the architecture, and the shift from an agrarian to a consumer society. Following the exhibition's conclusion in June 2022, the building is set to be transformed into a regenerative hotel by 2023.
Key facts
- Mike Nelson's installation occupies the entire Palazzo dell'Agricoltore in Parma.
- The building is a seven-story rationalist structure of 6,000 square meters.
- The exhibition is titled 'The House of the Farmer.'
- Curator Didi Bozzini introduces the work without altering its integrity.
- Sculptural materials include axes, rocks, branches, saw blades, and rusty steel bars sourced locally from reclaimed land.
- Nelson's own work hats are placed in two spots; he says he always leaves a hat behind.
- The building was originally the Fascist-era Farmers' Corporation, later a state office, and abandoned a few years ago.
- After the exhibition ends in June 2022, the building will become a regenerative hotel by 2023.
Entities
Artists
- Mike Nelson
Institutions
- Artribune
Locations
- Palazzo dell'Agricoltore
- Parma
- Italy
- Teatro Regio
- Piazzale Barezzi