Pietrasanta Honors Botero and Sophia Vari One Year After Deaths

On June 28, 2024, 'Mi Querida Pietrasanta' was held at Parco della Lumaca by Le Botteghe di Pietrasanta to commemorate the late Fernando Botero and his spouse Sophia Vari, a year after their passing. The gathering attracted 250 attendees, including Sophia's daughter Ileana and curator Lina Botero, Fernando's daughter. Guests were welcomed by a maxi violinist on stilts, while Liceo Artistico Stagio Stagi students showcased artworks inspired by the couple. Critic Vittorio Sgarbi praised Botero as 'the artist of happiness.' Lina Botero revealed that from July 10 to October 1, 2024, eight monumental Botero statues will be displayed in Rome at various locations, ahead of a significant exhibition at Palazzo Bonaparte starting September 17, 2024. The couple fell in love with Pietrasanta in the 1980s, purchasing a rustic home near Piazza del Duomo on architect Tiziano Lera's recommendation, where they enjoyed summers with friends like Ira Furstenberg and Prince Michele of Greece. Botero admired local artisans, while Vari valued family life.