In an unprecedented fusion of art and community, the Duomo of Naples has been transformed into a monumental photographic mosaic by French artist JR, as part of his latest project 'Who Are You, Naples?'. This site-specific installation, the eighth chapter of JR's 'Chronicles' series, marks the first of its kind in Italy, showcasing the faces and stories of 606 Neapolitans from diverse social and cultural backgrounds. The project, under the patronage of the City of Naples, highlights the city's communal spirit, resilience, and polymorphic soul.
The collaboration between the Gallerie d'Italia and the Archdiocese of Naples, through the Fondazione Napoli C'entro, was pivotal in bringing this visionary project to life on the sacred facade of the San Gennaro Cathedral. The inauguration, open to the public, was attended by notable figures including the artist himself, Michele Coppola of Gallerie d'Italia, Naples Mayor Gaetano Manfredi, and Monsignor Gennaro Matino, underscoring the project's significance to the city's cultural and social fabric.
'Who Are You, Naples?' is not just an art installation but a profound exploration of identity and community. JR's work captures the essence of Naples through the participation of its citizens—pizzaiolos, firefighters, priests, writers, musicians, tourists, grandmothers, students, and even the mayor—each sharing their story in Italian or Neapolitan. The project assigns equal dignity to every participant, with their voices and stories accessible on jrchronicles.net, offering a deeper connection to the artwork.
Accompanying the Duomo installation is an exhibition at the Gallerie d'Italia in Via Toledo, running until October 5, where visitors can delve into the behind-the-scenes of JR's creative process. This exhibition not only showcases the making of the Duomo mosaic but also features additional works that further explore the themes of community and identity. JR's 'Who Are You, Naples?' stands as a testament to the power of public art in capturing the heart and soul of a city, inviting both locals and visitors to reflect on what makes Naples uniquely vibrant and alive.
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