On 20 October 2023, the III International Biennial of Engraving and Sculpture was inaugurated in Teramo, a renewed edition and at the same time placed in continuity with the previous ones. The proposed theme, always inspired by Dante, is expressed through the words of the Supreme Poet: «Trasumanar significar per verba / non si poria» (Paradiso, Canto I, vv. 70-71). The meaning of going beyond human limits has been represented by some artists in a figurative key, focusing attention above all on Dante and Beatrice; in other cases in an abstract and symbolic way, alluding to the inexpressibility of the superhuman, to the fallibility of man or to the attempt at a possible salvific dialogue.
Engravers and sculptors have drawn inspiration from Dante's verses, combining tradition and innovation, experience and new suggestions; as a testimony to a universal art, without borders and conveyor of multiple points of view. Over ninety artists, of international origin and fame, participated in the competition by adhering to the call, presented on numerous communication channels (online and offline) and in several languages (Italian, English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese and Chinese). The works presented, more than two hundred, come from countries such as Italy, Poland, France, Austria, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Finland, Greece, Macedonia, Montenegro, Holland, Romania, Russia
The competition, part of the Celommi Prize, is divided into several sections: Free format engraving, Engraving with 200x200 format, Sculpture by invitation and Multisensory sculpture on a voluntary basis. The 200x200 Engraving section and the Multisensory Sculpture section are two new features of the third edition. The Multisensory Sculpture section was created with the aim of promoting an accessible and therefore inclusive art, able to speak to everyone because it is enjoyed through the senses; preferring the tactile experience in relation to the material of the sculpture itself. This represents a way of experiencing art that is not alternative to another, but integrative and enhanced because the work is perceived through multiple interpretations.
The engravings were selected by a careful jury, led by the art critic Emidio di Carlo and formed by the art master, teacher and artist Michele De Santis, the professors Massimiliano Donatiello and Luigi La Bella and Dr. Vincenza Capulli. The engravings, in addition to being published in a prestigious catalogue and exhibited (together with the sculptures), will enrich the collection of the museum of the “Libertà va cerco…” Foundation at the Villa Capuani-Celommi in Torricella Sicura.
The Competition and the exhibition, promoted by the Foundation, respond to the need and the objective of involving the entire community in a stimulating and lasting dialogue on the themes of history, art and creativity to promote knowledge, awareness and critical thinking in everyone. In addition, students in the final classes of the second cycle of education will participate in artistic workshops of engraving and mosaic, and some classes will take part in PCTO activities (Paths for transversal skills and orientation).
The International Biennale has grown over time, and this is confirmed by its return, in 2021, among the activities promoted by the Ministry of Culture and the National Dante Committee (established on the occasion of the celebrations of the 700th anniversary of the death of Dante Alighieri). Equally important is the network of collaborations established, edition after edition, because the Biennale is a hotbed of growth and ideas, thanks to its synergistic, participatory spirit and its attentive gaze, aimed at the future.
Article by Benedetta Clementoni
Cover: Dante and Beatrice - Enrico Di Sisto