At the Masked Ball (Al Ballo Mascherato)

Description

Inspired by Fabrizio De André’s "Al Ballo Mascherato," this painting represents a difficult moment in my life, where friends and family become key symbols.

Nelson, a symbol of resilience, suggests the strength to be found in pain. Beside him, the faithful Alex is present, with a copy of one of his paintings integrated into the scene, as if to keep me company and give a sense of artistic continuity and affection, much like Gaston and a family member, Napoleon, who would soon leave me.

Grimilde, with her authoritarian face, embodies my fears, while Madame Curie represents the rationality that partly supported me.

At the entrance to Dante’s inferno Marco and Gaia. They embody the choice between entering a world of despair or staying outside, observing, suspended between two worlds. Their figures reflect the complexity of personal relationships and the emotional struggles of that period, a mix of anguish and anticipation.

Lastly, Pope Gianluca, with his charismatic and provocative presence, contrasts with the real Pope Francis, creating a juxtaposition between spiritual authority and dissent, a theme reflecting the internal tension and ambiguity of that time. Dark tones of red, with hints of blue and gold, envelop the scene, suggesting tension but also hope and redemption.