Fabio Petani in Bergamo: BENZENE & SPATHIPHYLLUM COCHLEARISPATHUM

October 17, 2023 Artists

Today, we find ourselves in Bergamo, Italy, a city pulsating with fresh artistic expressions. Amidst the city’s cultural treasures, a captivating mural by the talented artist Fabio Petani has recently emerged, infusing the urban landscape with his distinctive naturalist perspective. Situated at the Istituto I.C. Petteni on Via Papa Ratti 13, this mural is an integral part of the “Questi siamo noi” project, aligning with Bergamo’s status as the 2023 Capital of Culture.

Fabio Petani. Detail. *BENZENE & SPATHIPHYLLUM COCHLEARISPATHUM*. Bergamo and Brescia Italian Capital of Culture 2023. Bergamo, Italy. (photo © courtesy of the artist)

Entitled “Tantemani Pigmenti & The True Quality,” the mural delves into the theme of nature’s prowess, specifically focusing on Spathiphyllum, renowned for its air-purifying abilities. It presents a powerful juxtaposition between the plant’s air-purifying qualities and the encroachment of detrimental elements like benzene in our environment. Petani’s meticulous blend of colors and shapes achieves visual harmony, echoing the mural’s core message—a delicate equilibrium between nature and industrialization.

A native of Pinerolo, Petani holds a Master of Arts in Cultural Heritage from the University of Turin, where he delved into Urban Art and street culture, tracing their roots to the present day. His art embodies a unique fusion of lines, forms, and volumes that converge through a subtle and harmonious palette. Petani’s profound exploration of chemical and molecular intricacies infuses his creations with intricate complexity, accentuating the interplay of art, chemistry, and nature. As you gaze upon this new mural, it serves as a poignant reminder of art’s capacity to inspire and provoke contemplation within the vibrant cultural heart of the city.

Art historian and independent curator of contemporary art, Alessandra Ioalè’s passion lies in championing various contemporary art forms, particularly those often overlooked by mainstream recognition. Her curator, writer, and researcher roles underscore an unwavering dedication to these artistic realms. She encapsulates Petani’s work eloquently: “Regrettably, contemporary urban landscapes often prioritize designs founded on Euclidean geometric structures. This rigidity can inadvertently estrange inhabitants from their surroundings, fostering discomfort. Embracing an understanding of plants can nurture alternative, harmonious ways of coexisting within urban spaces, promoting rebirth and regeneration. Perhaps we can reimagine our cities as urban jungles, where human and natural inhabitants evolve in unison, reshaping our urban identity.”