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of art by this artist.
Umberto Mariani Biography
Umberto Mariani, born on November 16, 1936, in Milan, Italy, is a distinguished Italian artist and painter whose work has significantly contributed to the post-war and contemporary art scene. Mariani's upbringing in a family with strong ideals, particularly highlighted by his father's active participation in the anti-fascist struggle during World War II, played a crucial role in shaping his artistic and personal ethos. The family's home served as a refuge for persecuted Jews, an experience that left a profound impact on Mariani's spirit and worldview.
Mariani's artistic journey began with his education at the Liceo Artistico, followed by the Accademia di Brera from 1954 to 1958, where he studied under Achille Funi and later became his assistant. This period was crucial for Mariani, as he collaborated with Funi on numerous decorative frescoes and other significant projects, such as the altarpiece of San Giuseppe in the Basilica of San Pietro in Rome. These experiences not only honed his skills in working on a large scale but also deeply influenced his artistic direction.
In the 1960s, Mariani embarked on monumental narrative works for St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, as well as mosaics and frescoes for the St. Antony Sanctuary in Rome. His work during this period was characterized by an expressionistic phase inspired by Constant Permeke, leading to the development of a personal artistic code that navigated between Pop-art and Surrealism. Mariani's profound influences include the Classical Greek statues he observed in Italy, which inspired his fascination with the delicate folds of fabric carved out of hard white marble. This fascination would later evolve into a desire to manipulate material, becoming a hallmark of his artistic expression.
Mariani is best known for his complex draperies on irregular-shaped canvases, exploring illusions of light and shadow created within the folds of fabric. His work in the 1970s was widely exhibited across Europe, including at the Palais des Beaux Arts in Brussels and the Musée Moderne in Paris. Mariani's innovative use of multidimensional canvas works combined intricate drapery over elusive lead sheets, where the fabric serves both to conceal and evoke the presence of a mysterious object beneath.
Throughout his career, Mariani has had several gallery and museum exhibitions, including at the Opera Gallery in Hong Kong and Monaco. His works have been sold at auction, with one notable piece, "Taghelmoust (il velo)," fetching $106,250 at Matsart Auctioneers & Appraisers in 2014. Mariani's artistic endeavors have earned him numerous accolades, including the Grandi Guglie honor awarded by the Centro Studi Grande Milano at Palazzo Isimbardi for his role as an ambassador of Milanese culture in the world.
Mariani's work is a testament to his mastery of form and material, as well as his ability to infuse his creations with a deep sense of history and personal experience. His exploration of the symbolic and aesthetic potential of drapery has positioned him as a unique figure in the realm of contemporary art, where his contributions continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. Mariani resides and works in Milan, Italy, where he continues to push the boundaries of his artistic practice, exploring new dimensions of expression and form.
Umberto Mariani Quotes and
Sales of Works
Ponti Art Gallery selects and deals with paintings by the
artist. Upon request, we provide free estimates and
evaluations, communicate prices, quotations, and current
market values.
If you are interested in BUYING or SELLING works by the
artist, contact us immediately.
If you wish to sell or receive an evaluation of the
works:
Send us a frontal photo of the painting, one of the back,
and one of the signature. Also, indicate the dimensions of
the work. Inform us about the purchase origin of the work
and any kind of available documentation (purchase
receipts, certificates of authenticity, publications). One
of our operators will respond to you on the same day. We
guarantee maximum confidentiality and extreme
professionalism.
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