When Art is a Game: Art and Illusions Exhibit on Display at Palazzo Strozzi
Written By: Kathleen Culliton
Located behind the arch of the Piazza della Repubblica the museum is a serene retreat from city life. It is a privilege to wander the courtyard of this Renaissance palace considering that its doors only recently opened to the public. In reaction to the criticism that the Florentine art scene was one dimensional The Fondazione Palazzo Strozzi was formed in 2006 to curate modern exhibits in the ancient palace and pull both the building and it's city into the modern art world. They have experienced unparalleled success; in two of the past three years the museum housed the most visited exhibitions in Italy.
Their most recent exhibit; Trompe-l'Oeil; Art and Illusion promises to be equally noteworthy event. Curated by Annamaria Giusti, Trompe-l'oeil seeks to define and explore the mastery of illusion. Clear and focused writing on display with the work tells a concise tale of the significance of illusion in art. Born from a period when realism was the object, the innovative artists of Trompe-l'Oeil both mastered ancient technique and created the new. It was these new techniques in perspective play that made Impressionism possible; an art form where perspective and reality entwine. The basic understanding of perspective began in jest as artist attempted to use our own eyes against us. An overview of these games of the eye are the masterpieces on display now at Palazzo Strozzi.
The Ten sections of Trompe-l'Oeil showcase the variations in theme, in medium, and in method used in the art of optical illusion. This structure succeeds because of the emphasis placed on skill and craft. Next to each piece is detailed information of the technique utilized to create effect. It is a relief to find this exhibit ask us not to reflect but to inquire; we look closer to understand why we see what we do and are freed from the egotistical question do I like this? Viewers can look deeply into the paintings without prejudice and find unexpected meaning. What might be an unfocused, scattered collection is united, section to section and medium to medium, around the sharp attention to technique and symbolism. The playing card appears (seemingly) tucked into the picture frames, thrown on desk tables, or hidden in a mirage throughout the exhibit. It can transcend from chronological orders, so strong is the narrative created by content. The result is a thrilling collection that entice the eye and engage the mind.
The Trompe-l'Oeil exhibit made its debut on Friday, October 16th at the Palazzo Strozzi and will run through the 24th of January, 2010. The Museum is open daily from 9 am to 8 pm, with extended hours through 11 pm on Thursday. Full admission is ten euro although reductions are available for students, seniors, and museum members. For more information visit the Palazzo website at www.palazzostrozzi.it. In our city that serves as an iconic tributary to the glories of the Renaissance such a bold and innovative modern exhibit provides a refreshing contrast. When Florence hosts an exhibit as skillfully designed as is Trompe-l'Oeil, the event that unfolds surely must not be missed.
Florence News - a9.10.27.11.20
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