Pasolini's Paintings: A Journey into the Artist's Private World
An article featured in Artribune delves into Pier Paolo Pasolini's often-overlooked painting and drawing endeavors, which stand in stark contrast to the harshness found in his literary and film works. Born in Bologna in 1922 and passing away in Rome in 1975, Pasolini drew inspiration from figures like Robert Musil and Franz Kafka, creating diverse artworks that embody Expressionism and personal family settings. He primarily painted for personal fulfillment, producing works such as the 1947 'Autoritratto con fiore in bocca' (Self-Portrait with Flower in Mouth). In the 1950s and 1960s, he transitioned to drawing, portraying friends and boys, including Ninetto Davoli. His artistic maturity began with 'Donna col fiore azzurro' (1947), as he aimed to reconnect with tradition and critique societal issues, expressing concerns over capitalism's threat to beauty.
Key facts
- Pier Paolo Pasolini was born in Bologna in 1922 and died in Rome in 1975.
- His paintings and drawings offer a quieter counterpoint to his brutal literary and cinematic works.
- He was influenced by Expressionism, De Pisis, Bonnard, and late 19th-century intimate atmospheres.
- He composed poems in Friulian as a high school student.
- He repeatedly depicted Casarsa della Delizia in affectionate, impressionist views.
- His 1947 self-portrait 'Autoritratto con fiore in bocca' suggests the transience of existence.
- In the 1950s and 1960s, he largely abandoned painting in favor of drawing.
- He portrayed friends including Ninetto Davoli, Roberto Longhi, and Maria Callas.
- His painting 'Donna col fiore azzurro' (1947) depicts a mysterious figure between a chanteuse and a goddess.
- In 'Narciso' (1947), he tells the death of beauty with cubist reminiscences.
- 'Ragazzo che suona il mandolino' (1967) reflects his interest in Africa.
- He feared the destruction of beauty by capitalism and alienating technology.
Entities
Artists
- Pier Paolo Pasolini
- Filippo de Pisis
- Pierre Bonnard
- Giovanni Pascoli
- Cesare Pavese
- Roberto Longhi
- Maria Callas
- Ninetto Davoli
- Giorgione
- Franz Kafka
- Robert Musil
Institutions
- Artribune
- Gabinetto Scientifico Letterario G.P. Vieusseux
Locations
- Bologna
- Italy
- Rome
- Casarsa della Delizia
- Uganda
- Tanzania
- Africa