Rodrigo Hernández Wins Campari Art Prize, Exhibition at Galleria Campari

The Campari Art Prize 2018 has been awarded to Mexican artist Rodrigo Hernández (Mexico City, 1983), presented by Galeria Mandragoa of Lisbon. The prize, dedicated to artists under 35 selected from Artissima's sections, recognizes research and narrative ability. The winning works are on view in the exhibition 'Pedigree' at Galleria Campari in Sesto San Giovanni, Milan, until February 14, 2020. The show features eight sculptures on the second floor of the museum, redesigned by architect Mario Botta, integrating with the brand's historical heritage. Hernández's installations, set against a custom wallpaper, draw from Meso-American iconography, European modernism, and Italian avant-gardes. The title 'Pedigree' references Patrick Modiano's novel, ironically reflecting on quality certification. Hernández was inspired by founder Gaspare Campari's method of blending ingredients, creating totemic figures combining abstract and figurative elements like dogs, buildings, men, and musical instruments, coated in glossy enamel. Curator Ilaria Bonacossa, director of Artissima, stated her pleasure in the collaboration between Artissima and Campari Group, noting that Campari's vision and passion for art encourage artists to tell unexpected stories. The third edition of the prize will take place during Artissima 2019, from October 31 (preview) to November 3.