Nino Caruso's 'Una vita inaspettata' Chronicles a Ceramic Master's Journey

Nino Caruso (Tripoli, 1928), sculptor, ceramist, and designer, releases his memoir 'Una vita inaspettata' published by Castelvecchi. The book intertwines his artistic career with his political activism, from his expulsion from Libya in 1951 for communist activities to his rise as an international ceramic artist. Caruso's works are installed globally, including at Galerie Les Champs in Paris, the Evangelical Church in Savona, Tokai Hospital and City Hall in Japan, La Rotunda in Coimbra, Portugal, Gijon railway station in Spain, and Marseille metro station. He served as director of the Accademia delle Belle Arti di Perugia. The preface by Valentino Parlato, co-founder of 'il manifesto', highlights their shared Libyan childhood and political awakening. Caruso reflects on his arrival in Rome in 1952, where he connected with artists at Villa Massimo, including Mazzacurati, Meli, Greco, and Guttuso. He discusses the role of ceramics as a peaceful, universal material and the importance of political engagement in art without falling into propaganda. The book serves as a formative novel for young artists, emphasizing sacrifice and resilience.