Ponti Art Gallery is interested in buying and selling works
of art by this artist.
Emilio Vedova Biography
Emilio Vedova, born on August 9, 1919, in Venice, Italy, emerged as one of the most significant Italian painters of the 20th century. His work, deeply rooted in the Arte Informale movement, reflects a tumultuous period in history, marked by the aftermath of World War II and the political upheavals in Italy and across Europe. Vedova's artistic journey is a testament to his relentless experimentation, political engagement, and profound influence on the trajectory of modern art.
Vedova's early life in Venice, a city known for its rich artistic heritage, played a crucial role in shaping his artistic sensibilities. Born into a working-class family, he was the third of seven children. His father was a house painter, which introduced Vedova to the world of colors and textures from a young age. Despite the lack of formal art education, Vedova was a voracious learner, teaching himself by sketching Venetian churches and frescoes, particularly those by Tintoretto, who would remain a lifelong inspiration.
The 1930s marked the beginning of Vedova's artistic career, a period characterized by his engagement with Expressionism. However, it was his involvement with the anti-fascist group "Corrente" during World War II that significantly shaped his political and artistic outlook. This period not only honed his skills as a draughtsman but also deepened his commitment to using art as a medium for social and political commentary.
Post-war Italy was a time of intense artistic activity and debate. Vedova, along with other artists, rejected the formalism of the past and sought new ways of expression that could capture the complexities of the contemporary world. In 1946, he co-signed the "Beyond Guernica" manifesto, advocating for an art that transcends figuration to engage with reality more profoundly. This period also saw the foundation of Fronte Nuovo delle Arti, an association aimed at promoting avant-garde art, which Vedova co-founded.
The 1950s and 1960s were particularly fruitful decades for Vedova. His participation in the Venice Biennale, where he won the Grand Prize for painting in 1960, and his exhibitions in the United States, notably at the Catherine Viviano Gallery in New York, brought him international recognition. His work from this period, characterized by its expressive and gestural abstraction, reflects his response to the political tensions of the Cold War era. Vedova's paintings from these decades are marked by their dynamic compositions, vigorous brushwork, and the use of black and white to create stark contrasts.
Vedova's exploration of the material and spatial aspects of painting led him to create the Plurimi series in the 1960s. These works, often large-scale and multi-paneled, broke away from the traditional confines of the canvas to engage directly with the viewer's space. This period also saw Vedova's collaboration with composer Luigi Nono, for whom he designed sets and costumes, further demonstrating his belief in the interdisciplinary nature of art.
Throughout his career, Vedova remained committed to teaching and sharing his vision with younger generations. He held positions at various institutions, including the Accademia di Belle Arti in Venice, where he influenced many aspiring artists. His contributions to art were recognized with numerous awards, including the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Venice Biennale in 1997.
Emilio Vedova passed away on October 25, 2006, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire artists and art lovers alike. His work, deeply rooted in the socio-political context of his times, challenges us to consider the role of art in society. Vedova's life and art exemplify the power of creativity to reflect, critique, and ultimately transform the world around us.
Emilio Vedova 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.
If you wish to purchase works by the painter: Contact us
and let us know your request. We will inform you about the
available works. We also offer the possibility to
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informed at the beginning of each month about the latest
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