In this city, renowned like no other for its world-famous white marble, I once again had the opportunity to work publicly alongside other international artists and to create my sculpture “Vino Pulito”, right in my chosen hometown!
“Vino Pulito” (translated as “washed wine) is a humorous yet profound sculpture. Made from exquisite white Carrara statuario marble and complemented by glass and metal elements, the piece stands about 80 cm tall.
Its shape is a clear reference to a washing machine, that everyday symbol of cleanliness, purity, and order, and of course, a sly nod to the cheap adulterated Italian wine that had given me the worst hangovers of my life more than once.
But instead of “cleaning” laundry, my work was transformed into a small wine tap installation: a sculpture with very practical abilities!
On the final day of the symposium, good-quality red wine flowed through a small tap installed into the marble washing machine, and we celebrated with the visitors by tasting it together.
Through this, the artwork ironically addresses humanity’s endless efforts to keep both body and mind “pure” and, mercilessly, denounces the damned wine adulterators. My God, some friends nearly went blind from that stuff!!
On the back of the sculpture is a relief showing a rat. It symbolizes adaptability, survival skills, and cunning, traits that artists desperately need in a world that is often ruthless.
The relief itself formally echoes traditional sculpture styles, creating a striking contrast to the modern, almost pop-art-inspired language of the “washing machine.”
The symposium was characterized by an intense, open atmosphere including alot of visitors. My friend and fellow artist Christian Ibanes also took part once again; we had already been a great team before at the San Marino symposium.
Together, we spent countless hours on the sun-drenched square in front of the Cathedral of San Andrea, surrounded by other sculptors, fine marble dust in the air, and the constant rhythm of hammer and chisel.
The work was sweaty and exhausting, but incredibly inspiring and a true experience of mutual support and survival spirit!
Among the special highlights of the symposium were the visit by the mayor of Carrara, who took the time to talk to us and view our works, and the warm invitation from Father Don Raffaello of the Cathedral of San Andrea.
He exclusively opened the old bell tower for us and led us, trembling over creaking beams, all the way to the top. From there, we enjoyed a breathtaking view over the city and up to the white marble quarries in the mountains, an unforgettable moment of deep connection with this extraordinary place.
For me, “Vino Pulito” represents not only the bridge between tradition and the present but also symbolizes the joy of life, the value of community, and the vital role that art can play in everyday life.
The experience in Carrara deeply shaped me, artistically and personally.
But honestly – I still prefer beer!
Carrara 2015
