“Reaching for the Stars” at Palazzo Strozzi, Florence
4 March, 2023 - 18 June, 2023
In an exhilarating convergence of contemporary art and Renaissance grandeur, the exhibition "Reaching for the Stars" at Palazzo Strozzi celebrates the 30th anniversary of the illustrious Sandretto Re Rebaudengo Collection. From March 4th to June 18th, 2023, this exceptional collaboration between Fondazione Palazzo Strozzi and Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo captivates visitors with over 70 works by leading Italian and international contemporary artists, including luminaries such as Maurizio Cattelan, Cindy Sherman, Damien Hirst, Lara Favaretto, William Kentridge, Berlinde De Bruyckere, Sarah Lucas, and Lynette Yiadom-Boakye.
At the helm of this artistic odyssey is the creative and innovative genius of Ms. Patrizia Sandretto Re Rebaudengo's art collecting practices. Her unwavering dedication to showcasing contemporary art in Italy is a testament to her vision and foresight. By foraging a contemporary renaissance of her own, she bridges the gap between the rich historical legacy of Palazzo Strozzi and the ever-evolving world of contemporary art. Witnessing this exceptional collection within the 15th-century Renaissance building is a truly transcendent experience, where past and present converge, and the echoes of artistic greatness resonate across the ages.
Curated by Fondazione Palazzo Strozzi Director General Arturo Galansino, "Reaching for the Stars" masterfully navigates through the most important strains in art, guiding visitors on a transformative journey across Palazzo Strozzi's spaces. The exhibition embraces an expansive range of artistic expressions, from painting and sculpture to installations, photography, videos, and performance art, enlivening a dialogue that interweaves the rich historical tapestry of the palazzo with the pulsating energy of contemporary creativity.
"Reaching for the Stars" artfully presents over 50 artists from diverse cultural backgrounds, offering a kaleidoscope of perspectives on the present and future of art. It becomes a powerful platform that openly showcases the variety, evolution, and profound relationship of art with contemporary society. The exhibition delves into themes of identity, the human body, and contemporary myths, addressing pressing issues like fragility, alienation, racial and gender discrimination, and the intricate dynamics between the community and the individual. The iconic works of artists such as Cindy Sherman, Barbara Kruger, Pawel Althamer, and Shirin Neshat serve as powerful vessels for introspection and social critique.
An unforgettable highlight of the exhibition is GONOGO, a captivating installation by artist Goshka Macuga, in the form of a monumental space rocket within the Renaissance courtyard. This mesmerizing artwork beckons visitors to embark on a journey with infinite layers of meaning, symbolizing the boundless possibilities of contemporary art and its ability to transcend time and space.
"Reaching for the Stars" is not merely an exhibition; it is a living testament to Ms. Patrizia Sandretto Re Rebaudengo's vision of creating a platform for experimentation and participation. The inclusion of new works specially commissioned for the exhibition and a diverse program of activities for the public reflect the ongoing commitment of the Collection to propel contemporary art debates forward.
The combined efforts of Fondazione Palazzo Strozzi and Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo have brought forth an extraordinary showcase of artistic brilliance. "Reaching for the Stars" is a resplendent tapestry that intertwines the past with the present, underlining the indomitable spirit of art and the visionary leadership of Ms. Patrizia Sandretto Re Rebaudengo in cultivating a thriving contemporary art scene in Italy. This exhibition stands as a testament to the enduring power of art to inspire, transcend, and illuminate the human experience.
