Lucio Del Pezzo

Chair, Modernist Tabletop Sculpture by Lucio Del Pezzo

circa 1970

Lucio Del Pezzo (1933–2020) was an Italian artist renowned for his contributions to painting and sculpture, characterized by a unique blend of Neo-Surrealist, Neo-Dadaist, and Pop Art influences. Early Life and Education: Born on December 13, 1933, in Naples, Del Pezzo studied painting at the Accademia di Belle Arti in Naples. In 1958, he co-founded "Gruppo 58," an art movement associated with the "Movimento Nucleare" led by Enrico Baj, and contributed to the avant-garde magazine "Documento Sud." Career Highlights: In 1960, Del Pezzo moved to Milan, encouraged by Enrico Baj and Arturo Schwarz, and held his first solo exhibition at Galleria Schwarz. The following year, he exhibited in the United States, winning the Carnegie International Award. By 1964, he participated in the XIII Triennale di Milano, co-creating the "Labirinto del Tempo Libero" with artists like Enrico Baj and Lucio Fontana, earning international recognition. He also took part in the XXXII Venice Biennale. Del Pezzo later relocated to Paris, residing in Max Ernst's former studio, and continued to exhibit across Europe and the United States. In 1966, he was featured with a personal room at the XXXIII Venice Biennale. Throughout his career, he collaborated with architects on interior designs and created large-scale public artworks, including ceramic reliefs and bronze sculptures for the Naples underground stations in 2001. Del Pezzo's work is distinguished by the incorporation of geometric shapes, symbols, and enigmatic references, often arranged in assemblages that blur the line between painting and sculpture. His art reflects a rational geometry with a metaphysical bent, influenced by Pop Art, and showcases a deep engagement with both popular culture and classical traditions. Lucio Del Pezzo passed away on April 12, 2020, in Milan. His work continues to be celebrated for its innovative fusion of different artistic movements and its contribution to 20th-century Italian art.