Giorgio Morandi
Born – Bologna, Italy 1890
Died – Bologna, Italy 1946
Giorgio Morandi remained at a distance from most of the frenzied artistic developments of the twentieth century. He never left Italy. He studied in Bologna where he had a fleeting association with the Futurists, taking part in their first International Exhibition in Rome in 1914. In 1918 he was influenced by de Chirico’s metaphysical work and briefly introduced a few surreal elements into his paintings. Apart from a few early landscapes, Morandi’s work consisted almost entirely of still life. This contemplative Still Life, with its huddled collection of bottles and bowls is a quintessential Morandi. The delicate austerity of the simple composition is reinforced by a restrained use of colour. In his single-minded devotion to his subject matter, as well as his subtle, sparse and serene arrangements, Morandi’s still life has echoes of both Chardin and Cezanne. The cool, classical spirit infusing his work can also be traced to the fourteenth-century artist Piero della Francesca. Held in great esteem by the younger generation of Italian artists, Morandi taught at the Bologna academy from 1930. He was also an accomplished engraver.
Masterpieces:
- Metaphysical Still Life
- Still Life
Text: The A-Z of Art, Nicola Hodge and Libby Anson.
Books About giorgio morandi
Giorgio Morandi 1890-1964: Nothing Is More Abstract Than Reality
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Giorgio Morandi
Franz A. Morat
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Giorgio Morandi
Renato Miracco
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