Untitled (Pale)
Copper, lead, iron, wood, oil, candles, refrigeration unit, refrigerator motors
Element (2 of the 3 panels): 141 3/4 x 58 11/16 x 9 7/16 in
Element (1 panel): 141 3/4 x 55 1/8 x 3 1/8 in
The verticality and flickering candle lights on this monumental triptych instantly inspire a deep sense of the sacred. Yet, the title of these three pieces of metal – copper, iron and lead –, Senza titolo (Pala di ferro, lumini, pala di rame) (Untitled - Iron plate, lights, copper plate) leaves no doubt: a direct reference to Venetian church altarpieces, this ambitious installation was originally a public commission to decorate a church.
The association of metals and natural elements, like wood, fire and ice, is central to the work of Pier Paolo Calzolari, who explores the intrinsic qualities of unconventional materials. By frosting metal surfaces with the help of a refrigerating system, he continues his metamorphic explorations between alchemy and Arte Povera.
An emblematic work by Pier Paolo Calzolari, Untitled (Iron pall - Tealights - Copper pall) was first shown by the Pinault Collection at the 2016 “Accrochage” (“Hanging”) exhibition at the Punta della Dogana.
