„Arab Phoenix”

„ARAB PHOENIX” Work made within the international sculpture symposium of Buzău, „Memory of Water”, 1st edition, 1st – 31st July 2022. The sculpture by Italian artist Marino Di Prospero, entitled „The Arab Phoenix”, is a representation of perpetual motion, floating in space with lightness and elegance. It represents the circular movement of nature, the seasons, the regeneration and rebirth of new life. The sculpture is an explicit reference to the history of the city of Buzău, which has gone through hard times: numerous destructions and rebirths from its own ashes. The circular fabric is a fluid and dynamic form, with a great centralizing and self-referential force. At first glance, the sculpture gives the idea of something alive and interactive, which takes you to the thought of a bird, with a play of full and empty, opposing elements that cancel each other out, creating a harmonious balance with nature. Marino Di Prospero studied at the Arts High School in L’Aquila. After his specific studies he came out on the art scene when he was still very young. He started sculpting and painting in the early 1970s. In 1982 he met and befriended Pericle Fazzini who gave him important advice for his growth, so that his artistic path would remain strongly rooted in the symbolic values of ancient civilizations. He held solo and joint art exhibitions in Italy and abroad. His works are placed in museums and in numerous public and private collections, from 1986 and so far, he has produced 60 public works. The most important activities he participated in: 2017 – realization of memorial to the victims of the 2016 earthquake in Amatrice, Italy; 2013 – winner of the European competition for a sculpture, „Vertical Contortion” at the New Barracks of Guardia di Finanza in Perugia; 2013 – realization of the funeral mask in silver for Pope St. Celestine V; 2009 – winner of the European competition for the Fireman’s Monument at the New Barracks of the Fire Brigade in Acireale (Catania); 2006 – winner of the European competition for sculpture „Genesis I” at Torvaianica in Pomezia (Rome); 2005 – International event „Podepsàno Srdcem” „signed with heart” delegate for Italy selected at the Presidential Palace in Prague Czech Republic; 1993 – Canals Art Gallery, „Young Art of EEC – Europa Miro” delegate for Italy selected, Sant Cugat Barcelona (Spain); 1984 – IX National Magazine of Painting and Sculpture Prize G. D’Annunzio „First Prize” for sculpture, Pescara.