Edmondo Bacci “Energy and Light" at The Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Venice
1 April, 2023 - 18 September, 2023
The Peggy Guggenheim Collection presents a remarkable exhibition titled "Edmondo Bacci: Energy and Light." Curated by Chiara Bertola, this exhibition marks the first and most extensive retrospective dedicated to the influential Venetian artist Edmondo Bacci (1913–1978). Focusing on the artist's most creative period, the 1950s, the exhibition presents approximately eighty works, including previously unseen paintings and drawings, showcasing Bacci's unique approach to Spazialismo and his significant contributions to the Italian post-war art scene.
Chiara Bertola's curatorial approach is masterful, guiding visitors through the significant milestones of Edmondo Bacci's artistic career. The exhibition is structured to offer a comprehensive exploration of Bacci's work during the 1950s when he achieved international recognition. The curator's meticulous selection of artworks from the Archivio Edmondo Bacci, private collections, and prestigious museums like the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Palm Springs Art Museum, allows viewers to experience the artist's growth and innovation during this crucial period.
The exhibition commences with Bacci's most celebrated era, the 1950s, where he became a leading exponent of Spazialismo and earned acclaim for his unique painting style. Bertola carefully presents paintings and drawings from this period, showcasing the generative force of Bacci's colors, the innovative rupturing of spatial planes, and the rhythmic circular brushstrokes that captivated Peggy Guggenheim and Alfred H. Barr Jr. The curation of this section effectively sets the tone for an exploration of Bacci's groundbreaking contributions to Venetian post-war art.
Then we are taken into the second section which delves into Bacci's keen understanding of the latest type of abstraction and his ability to merge contemporary art trends from both Europe and the United States with his distinct personal style. By displaying works that highlight this aspect of Bacci's artistry, Bertola effectively illustrates how the artist bridged cultural gaps and made a profound impact on the global art scene. This section reinforces Bacci's status as one of the finest representatives of post-war art in Venice.
A highlight of the exhibition is the presence of Avvenimento #13R, a significant work acquired by the Museum of Modern Art in New York in 1953. Its return to Italy after decades represents a momentous occasion, as it provides Italian audiences with a rare opportunity to view this influential piece on home soil. Bertola's curation of this section underscores the work's importance in understanding the evolution of Bacci's pictorial language of colour and light, making it a focal point of contemplation for visitors.
"Edmondo Bacci: Energy and Light" at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice is a remarkable exhibition that celebrates the brilliance of an often-overlooked artist. Edmondo Bacci's creative prowess during the 1950s shines through the curation of Chiara Bertola, who skillfully guides viewers on a journey of artistic exploration. The exhibition showcases Bacci's ability to innovate and adapt while remaining rooted in the essence of his artistic vision.
The range of artworks on display, including previously unseen pieces, provides a comprehensive view of Bacci's artistic journey, highlighting his contributions to the Spazialismo movement and his groundbreaking approach to abstraction. Bertola's expertise in organizing the exhibition creates a seamless narrative that pays homage to the artistic genius of Edmondo Bacci.
Accompanied by a substantial illustrated catalogue, the exhibition offers viewers valuable insights into Bacci's life and artistic vision. The essays by Chiara Bertola, Martina Manganello, Barry Schwabsky, Toni Toniato, and Riccardo Venturi deepen the understanding of Bacci's significance within the broader art historical context.
"Edmondo Bacci: Energy and Light" is a remarkable exhibition that presents the brilliance of a Venetian artist who shaped the post-war art scene in Italy and beyond. Chiara Bertola's careful selection and thoughtful curation breathe new life into Bacci's works, making the modern exhibition feel fresh and contemporary. This exhibition is not only a testament to Bacci's artistic prowess but also a celebration of his impact on the art world, bringing deserved attention to a remarkable talent who, until now, has not received the comprehensive retrospective he rightfully deserves.
