"Art is a gift, not a business. Artists should not have to pay to make their creativity known. Just as musicians don't pay to be heard, painters and visual artists deserve to be seen without facing additional costs. Their art is a treasure for everyone, and the world should be able to appreciate it without economic barriers. The visibility of artists should be natural, just like their talent."
'' ITALY AGAINST RACISM ''
A beautiful girl with Caucasian features, her hair split in the middle and light-colored eyes. It is Italy’s portrait updated to 2020 by Raffaele Ciotola. As in the stamps, the identification marks are all there: she is towered, she has the insignia of the Italian Republic well visible at the base of her neck, on the background a tricolour flag is slightly moved by the wind. But what wind is blowing over Italy in 2020? A wind that blows from the right and that carries a threatening ray of light, too. Which illuminates and highlights the right side of the young woman, while the left side remains, blackened, in the shadow. Looking carefully, her hair on the left side is certainly darker, or rather black, short and curly. Perhaps this is to show a gradual genetic mutation, African somatic features going into the DNA of the Italian population, which are making the half of her face black. But maybe the painting should be seen as a metaphor for the political polarization that stirs Italian souls in these times: half of the inhabitants wants Italy owned by Italians (the Right) and the other half (the Left) wants a country that welcomes and includes migrants in our society which is globalized nowadays. Above the two factions, however, the title of the painting leaves no doubt: the author takes sides against racism in any case. That racism, confessed and disowned at the same time, which settles in the dark part of Italy, in its bowels, but which too often emerges with violent and absolutely free attacks in the pages of daily news. The artist seems to communicate that racism belongs to everyone and, with this painting, he urges us to identify it and fight against it. Italy must be against racism, against all kinds of racism.
Anna Amendolagine
Contemporary art curator, critic, journalist.
Raffaele Ciotola: Pioneer of Contemporary and Social Art
Raffaele Ciotola is a renowned Neapolitan artist, born on October 17, 1964, who stands out in the contemporary art scene for his unique ability to blend aesthetic innovation with a strong social commitment. His career has been marked by a revolutionary approach, capable of redefining the boundaries of modern art and exploring critical themes such as inclusion, civil rights, and social justice. His works, with their powerful emotional and visual impact, communicate universal messages that encourage reflection and change.
Education and Artistic Influences
Ciotola is not a self-taught artist, but a Master of Art with a solid academic education. After earning his Maturità Artistica, he distinguished himself for his passion for music, studying Bel Canto (Lower level – tenor) at the Conservatory of San Pietro a Majella in Naples. This experience further enriched his artistic vision and expressive capability. His formal education and academic experiences, combined with his sensitivity, enable him to explore and manipulate various artistic languages, uniquely combining tradition and innovation. His artistic influences range from classical Neapolitan art to international avant-garde movements, creating an ongoing dialogue between past and present. This approach allows him to confront contemporary social and political challenges, using art as a powerful communication tool to raise awareness and promote change.
Social Commitment and Creativity
Raffaele Ciotola has always conceived art not only as a form of aesthetic expression but also as a means of social reflection. His works have never been simple visual representations but manifestations of critical thought, exploring power dynamics, social inequalities, and the need for inclusivity. With an original and bold visual language, he has captured the public’s attention, creating works that are both provocative and immensely beautiful.
Ciotola has demonstrated how art can be a powerful vehicle for communicating universal human values and stimulating public dialogue on relevant social issues. Thanks to his education and vision, the Master manages to convey his commitment to society through each of his creations, making each work a symbol of change and hope.
Recognition and International Impact
Raffaele Ciotola works have received recognition in numerous countries, with exhibitions and participation in internationally significant events. His shows have attracted the attention of critics, gallery owners, and museum curators, solidifying his position as one of the most influential and controversial Italian artists of his generation. His transgressive approach and his ability to provoke deep reflection on current issues make him a prominent figure in the contemporary art world.
A Manifesto of Artistic Innovation
Raffaele Ciotola is not just a visual artist but also a true cultural innovator. Through his art, he tackles complex themes and stimulates public discussion on civil rights, equity, and social justice. His works, rich in chromatic intensity and refined chiaroscuro techniques, create a unique synergy between aesthetics and content, making them accessible to a wide audience. Each piece is an invitation to reflection, an exploration of human emotions and the challenges of contemporary life.