The Italian Cultural Institute is pleased to invite you to the opening of the exhibition: THE LIGHT OF SOUTHERN ITALY. Paintings from the 19th-Century Neapolitan School

Wednesday, October, 7 2015 - 6PM

Italian Cultural Institute - 686 Park Avenue - New York

by RSVP only. Cocktail Attire Required

The "Neapolitan School" of the 19th century encompasses a wide range of artistic schools, stylistic currents and geographic regions on the peninsula stretching from Molise to the Abruzzo region and from Sicilia to Puglia. For the first time, 34 unique paintings from private collections are on view in the U.S, including works of artists of the caliber of Filippo Palizzi, Francesco Paolo Michetti, Giuseppe De Nittis and Antonio Mancini, to name a few.

A common objective links this selection of paintings: the quest to capture and harness sunlight in all of its moods, personalities and permutations.

The poetry of these paintings lies in the overall landscaping and lighting effect conveyed depending upon the time of day, changing seasons, or sudden change in weather. The prevalent use of chiaroscuro, the strong juxtaposition of light and shadow to depict the ever changing lights of the Mediterranean vividly animates these representations of natural imagery and spectacular locations along the jagged coastline.

This exhibit wants to honor those forebears that embarked on a most courageous journey across the ocean in search of a better life for their families. It is also a reminder to the Italian-Americans of their vibrant and beautiful heritage.

Exhibition curated by Marco Bertoli

On view from October, 7 to November, 5 2015
Monday through Saturday 10:00am to 5:00 pm