As we mark the centenary of Mario Giacomelli’s birth, one of the most groundbreaking figures in Italian photography, his extraordinary artistic legacy takes center stage through a series of initiatives led by the Mario Giacomelli Archive. At the heart of these celebrations, two major exhibitions will run simultaneously in Rome and Milan, offering distinct yet complementary perspectives on his work.
At Palazzo Esposizioni in Rome, “Mario Giacomelli. The Photographer and the Artist” will explore the dialogue between his photography and contemporary visual arts. Meanwhile, at Palazzo Reale in Milan, “Mario Giacomelli. The Photographer and the Poet” will highlight the deep connection between his images and poetry. Curated by Bartolomeo Pietromarchi and Katiuscia Biondi Giacomelli, the exhibitions will showcase more than 300 original prints, including many previously unseen works. Through this approach, visitors will gain fresh insight into Giacomelli’s legacy, enriched by artistic and narrative crossovers.
Rome: Giacomelli and His Dialogue with Visual Arts
The Rome exhibition, running from May 20 to August 3, 2025, is organized by the Department of Culture of Roma Capitale and Azienda Speciale Palaexpo, in collaboration with the Mario Giacomelli Archive. Designed as a thematic journey, the exhibition connects Giacomelli’s work with that of major contemporary artists, such as Afro Basaldella, Alberto Burri, Enzo Cucchi, Jannis Kounellis, and Roger Ballen.
Exhibition Highlights:
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The Influence of Abstract Painting: By comparing Giacomelli’s work with that of Afro and Burri, the exhibition underscores his deep interest in texture and composition. This connection becomes especially clear in the series Motivo suggerito dal taglio dell’albero (1966/68) and Territorio del linguaggio (1994).
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Realism and Social Vision: The dialogue with Jannis Kounellis, a leading figure in Arte Povera, highlights Giacomelli’s strong engagement with everyday life and social themes. This is particularly evident in his series Verrà la morte e avrà i tuoi occhi (1966/68) and Mattatoio (1960).
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Landscape and Cultural Identity: In the section dedicated to Enzo Cucchi, Giacomelli’s landscapes emerge as powerful symbols of identity and human experience. The selection of images in this part of the exhibition explores the intricate relationship between people and nature.
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A Tribute to Contemporary Photography: The exhibition concludes with a compelling comparison between Giacomelli and Roger Ballen. The South African photographer has often cited Giacomelli as a major source of inspiration, making this dialogue particularly meaningful.
At the heart of the Rome exhibition, visitors will find a dedicated space for Io non ho mani che mi accarezzino il volto (1961/63), the series that brought Giacomelli international recognition. For the first time, an extensive selection of prints and original proofs will be displayed in an immersive installation, allowing audiences to experience the full emotional intensity of his work.
Milan: Photography as Poetry
Meanwhile, from May 22 to September 7, 2025, Palazzo Reale in Milan will present an exhibition that explores Giacomelli’s deep connection with poetry. Through this lens, visitors will discover how his images carry lyrical and emotional narratives. This initiative, promoted by the Municipality of Milan – Culture, is produced by Palazzo Reale in collaboration with the Mario Giacomelli Archive, Rjma Progetti Culturali, and Silvana Editoriale.
Exhibition Highlights:
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The Influence of Poetic Language: In series such as Per poesie (‘60/’90) and Favola, verso possibili significati interiori (1983/84), Giacomelli transforms photography into a symbolic and metaphorical language.
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Homage to Giacomo Leopardi: Through L’Infinito (1986/90) and Presa di coscienza sulla natura (1976-80), Giacomelli visually interprets Leopardi’s contemplative approach to nature. These works reflect a profound meditation on the infinite and the passage of time.
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Portraits of Memory and Melancholy: Inspired by Vincenzo Cardarelli, Passato (1986/90) delves into themes of nostalgia and the fleeting nature of time. Similarly, his images from Spoon River (1967/73), based on Edgar Lee Masters’ poetry, evoke the delicate interplay between memory and loss.
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Love and Solitude: Giacomelli’s collaboration with writer Francesco Permunian unfolds through series like Ho la testa piena, mamma (1994/95) and Il teatro della neve (1984/86). In these works, word and image merge to explore themes of love, longing, and introspection.
As in Rome, the Milan exhibition will feature a dedicated space for Io non ho mani che mi accarezzino il volto. This immersive setup will highlight the series’ strong narrative and symbolic power. To conclude the exhibition, visitors can experience an audio installation featuring recordings of Giacomelli’s voice. Additionally, a meticulously reconstructed darkroom will offer a rare glimpse into his creative process, complete with his iconic Kobell camera.
A Timeless Legacy
Ultimately, the centenary celebrations serve as more than just a tribute to Giacomelli’s genius. They offer a unique opportunity to rediscover his lasting influence on contemporary art and photography. Suspended between photography, painting, and poetry, his work continues to inspire new generations, proving that his artistic language remains as powerful and relevant as ever.
To complement these exhibitions, a comprehensive catalog published by Silvana Editoriale will provide further insights into Giacomelli’s thought process and artistic evolution.