Velasco Vitali's 'Branco' Installed at Palermo Police Headquarters
Artist Velasco Vitali has unveiled a striking installation of 54 life-sized dogs, crafted from illegal construction materials, at the Palermo police headquarters. This artwork, named 'Branco,' is part of the 'Spazi Capaci/Comunità Capaci' urban art initiative by the Falcone Foundation, symbolizing the assault of criminality on the state. Notably, this marks the first time in Europe that police have engaged in a contemporary art project. Curated by Alessandro de Lisi, the installation follows two murals by Andrea Buglisi that pay tribute to anti-mafia judges Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino. The initiative commemorates the thirtieth anniversary of the Capaci massacre in 2022, with Maria Falcone stating that culture and art are vital in defeating mafias.
Key facts
- Velasco Vitali created 'Branco', a pack of 54 life-sized dogs from illegal construction materials.
- The installation is placed inside the Palermo police headquarters.
- It is part of the 'Spazi Capaci/Comunità Capaci' project by the Falcone Foundation.
- This is the first time in Europe that police have participated in a contemporary art intervention.
- The project includes two murals by Andrea Buglisi dedicated to Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino.
- The initiative celebrates the thirtieth anniversary of the Capaci massacre in 2022.
- Police Chief Leopoldo Laricchia and Maria Falcone made statements about the project.
- Curator Alessandro de Lisi emphasized the role of art in strengthening civic bonds.
Entities
Artists
- Velasco Vitali
- Andrea Buglisi
Institutions
- Fondazione Falcone
- Polizia di Stato
- Questura di Palermo
Locations
- Palermo
- Italy
- via Duca della Verdura
- via Sanpolo
- Ucciardone bunker courtroom
- Salita Manganelli