The Museum of Palazzo Mocenigo is currently hosting “L’Albero della Vita” (The Tree of Life), a magnificent installation by renowned Italian artist and designer Carla Tolomeo. Open to the public until November 24, 2024, this large-scale work marks a significant milestone in Tolomeo’s illustrious career.
“The Tree of Life” is an impressive creation made from iron, wood, and fabric, composed of eight hundred unique pieces handcrafted by Tolomeo. Each element stands alone yet harmonizes with the others, forming a cohesive and vibrant whole. The tree’s intricate design features individually distinct leaves, fruits hanging from branches, turtles climbing, parrots perching, tropical flowers blooming, snakes hiding, and fish darting among the roots. These components are meticulously fashioned from luxurious fabrics, trimmings, silks, cottons, lampas, and brocades, all reflecting the rich tradition of Venetian textile craftsmanship.
Inspiration for this extraordinary work stems from Jorge Luis Borges’ “Manual of Fantastic Zoology”. Tolomeo, who had the privilege of knowing and befriending Borges, draws from the phantasmagoric creatures depicted in his writings. These creatures, sourced from various universal cosmogonies, symbolize the continuous renewal and transformation inherent in all living beings, whether animal or vegetal.
“The Tree of Life” not only showcases Tolomeo’s exceptional artistic skills but also embodies a deeper cultural and existential narrative. It invites viewers to reflect on the perpetual cycles of life, renewal, and transformation, all through the lens of fantastical creatures and the masterful use of Venetian textile traditions. This installation is a testament to Tolomeo’s creative genius and her ability to infuse life and imagination into her art.
Website: www.visitmuve.it
Location: Mocenigo Palace Museum, Venice
Schedule: Nov. 24, 2024
