A journey into the art of social commitment: an invitation to reflect on social injustices, through works that combine painting, sculpture and installations
On July 18, 2023, the Triennale di Milano hosted a significant event: the exhibition of Venetian artist Michele Tombolini, a leading figure in the contemporary art scene, known for his social commitment and his ability to use art as a tool of denunciation.
The exhibition, organized in one of the most prestigious places of Italian culture, attracted the attention of art lovers, critics and the public for the depth of the themes covered and for the originality of Tombolini’s visual language.
The heart of the exhibition was an invitation to reflect on social injustices, through works that combine painting, sculpture and installations. Themes such as child exploitation, violence against women and the indifference of contemporary society towards the weakest were at the center of the exhibition.
Among the works on display, the tapestry “Human Error” and the painting “Golden Refuge” stand out, both part of the cycle that gives the exhibition its name: “The Reflections of the Soul”. These works reflect Tombolini’s interest in social issues of great importance, such as child abuse, which the artist explores with delicacy and depth.
The butterfly, a recurring element in Tombolini’s works, is a symbol of lightness but also of fragility, which well represents the subjects of his denunciations. His art, although with a delicate and evocative visual language, does not fail to provoke and shake the viewer, inviting him to a deep reflection.
During the evening, the video “Indelible Marks” (2016) was also screened on loop, a short film that further explores the theme of memory and the invisible scars left by abuse, treated with a sensitive and introspective touch.
The exhibition on July 18 at the Triennale di Milano represented not only a retrospective of Michele Tombolini’s work, but also a moment of dialogue between the artist and the public on urgent and often neglected issues. With his works, Tombolini has been able to give voice to those who often cannot express themselves, emphasizing an art that is not an end in itself, but that wants to actively intervene in society.
In this event, art has become a real megaphone for pressing social issues, creating a space for discussion and reflection that goes beyond aesthetic boundaries, actively involving the visitor. Michele Tombolini’s ability to convey universal messages through his visual artistic language will remain as a point of reference for engaged art, demonstrating how beauty can coexist with the urgency to change the world.
A way of making art capable of intertwining the symbolic power of the image with social issues of great importance, bringing out the urgency of change and greater awareness.
Tombolini’s art is not only to be admired, but above all to be experienced and understood in its profound message.
Michele Tombolini’s path for Triennale Estate was wanted and organized by Francesca Parvizyar, who takes care of the artist’s international relations by opening doors for new artist projects overseas, in particular the USA and Canada, starting next September 2024.
“The Reflections of the Soul” also had Italmondo, a leader in logistics and international transport for more than 70 years, and Artistinct – This is Art, an artistic and cultural ecosystem committed to elevating the world art scene.
The event was also supported by the Venturini Baldini winery, a historic company located on the Matidilche Hills in Emilia and which stands out for its production approach in full respect of nature and its ecosystem, from which prestigious sparkling wines and a sophisticated and varied selection of organic wines that represent the diversity of Emilia are born.
INFO/PHOTO COURTESY: Michele Tombolini
Chiara Mattavelli
