Pascali Sciamano

The show at Fondazione Carriero in Milan focuses on the work of Pino Pascali (Bari, 1935 – Rome, 1968), presented in dialogue with what is commonly labeled “tribal art”.

The show focuses on the work of Pino Pascali (Bari, 1935 – Rome, 1968), presented in dialogue with what is commonly labeled “tribal art”, and was born from the desire to explore Pascali’s creative approach, in particular, investigating the bond between the Italian artist and African culture. “Pascali Sciamano” is a surprising journey, with a focus on his output between 1966 and 1968 that will allow visitors to discover works that are unknown to the general public or have never been displayed before.

Top: (from the left) Dan, Côte d'Ivoire, mask “disease”, 20th century; Dan, Côte d'Ivoire, mask, 20th century; Dan, Côte d'Ivoire, Deangle mask, 20th century. Above: Pascali Sciamano, installation view at Fondazione Carriero, Milan, 2017

Tribal art and the poetics of Pino Pascali have various things in common. Pascali was an eclectic artist, sculptor, set designer, performer, key figure on the Italian art scene during the 1960s, and one of the most original protagonists of Arte Povera – beginning with his interest in that which is savage and primitive, as opposed to the myths of modern society that is increasingly technologized, mechanized, and industrialized.

Adamawa, Nigeria, ritual vase, 20th century

The artist’s special attention to mythology, fairy tales, and stories shared between Africa and Europe as well as the fascination of Africa’s natural imaginary are transversely reflected in his works: a clear example are the the fake sculptures depicting fragments of rhinos, dinosaurs, and enormous whales plus creepers, bridges made with structures in steel wool, and totems made from various techniques and mixed media.

Pino Pascali, Cinque bachi da setola e un bozzolo, 1968


24 March – 24 June 2017
Pascali Sciamano
curated by Francesco Stocchi
Fondazione Carriero
via Cino del Duca 4, Milan