The exhibition “Mario Ferretti: An Artistic Restlessness of the 20th Century” is on display at the state museum in Piazzetta Titano, in the historic centre of San Marino, until March 2nd, 2025.
Curated by Dr Paolo Rondelli, Director of the Cultural Institute of San Marino, in collaboration with the Consul of San Marino in the UK, Prof Maurizio Bragagni Esq OBE, the exhibition was thoughtfully crafted to offer an engaging and educational experience, while paying tribute to Ferretti’s lasting legacy.
Mario Ferretti (1915–1974) was a renowned Italian painter and draftsman from Livorno, celebrated for his distinctive artistic perspective and discreet defiance against the fascist regime. Throughout his prolific career, Mario Ferretti’s artistic expression underwent a remarkable evolution, characterized by distinct phases that reflected both his personal experiences and broader historical and cultural contexts. Initially, his work featured graphic interpretations of the historical city, where he skilfully captured its architectural and cultural essence. As the 1940s progressed, he adopted more restrained colour palettes, demonstrating a shift toward a more nuanced and introspective artistic style. By the 1950s, Ferretti fully embraced abstraction, moving further away from representational art and towards a form that emphasized emotion and conceptual depth.
Despite a significant interruption in his creative output, Ferretti’s commitment to figurative expression remained steadfast, illustrating his resilience and determination as an artist. The esteemed critic Curzio Malaparte aptly described Ferretti as a “purely plastic artist,” recognizing his exceptional ability to orchestrate subjects in a manner that maximized their dramatic impact and emotional resonance.
A significant element of Ferretti’s work lies in the nuanced expression of his homosexuality, most notably seen in his depictions of nudes that intentionally blur distinct gender characteristics. This stylistic approach serves as a powerful commentary on the persecution and societal oppression endured during Italy’s fascist regime, encapsulating both his personal struggles and the wider experiences of marginalised communities. Through his art, Ferretti not only captured the essence of his surroundings but also initiated a profound discourse on identity, social injustice, and the human condition.
Ferretti’s artistic legacy continues to hold significant relevance for contemporary artists and art enthusiasts alike. His work stands as a compelling testament to the resilience and defiance of individuals who have endured oppression under fascist regimes. Furthermore, it serves as a poignant symbol of resistance, offering a profound exploration of identity and the human experience. His art remains a powerful reminder of the enduring capacity of the human spirit to challenge intolerance and persecution through creativity and expression.
To delve deeper into Ferretti’s works and masterpieces, we warmly invite you to visit the exhibition “Mario Ferretti: An Artistic Restlessness of the 20th Century,” running from 29 November 2024 to 2 March 2025 at the State Museums, Piazzetta del Titano 1, City of San Marino.
Before attending the exhibition, we recommend watching an interview with Dr Paolo Rondelli, hosted by Vanilla Magazine. In this interview, Dr Rondelli provides a guided introduction to the exhibition, offering valuable insights into Ferretti’s life and work.
For those who don’t speak Italian, a transcript in English is available.