Many critics refer to Mario Giacomelli’s work as being ‘Figurative Expressionism’, other refer to it as self-analysis – a Freudian response to one’s homeland, a love/hate relationship. For many others, it’s a collection of evocative images that belong to a bygone era. But how does Katiuscia Biondi see her granddad’s artistic expressions?
The work of Giacomelli is very complex, combining the complexity of mankind, as well as the insight of the author as he looks through his viewfinder, together with the complexity of the world.

Does genetic memory exist?
I would not use the term ‘genetics’. It is my belief that family ties don’t have a biological or genetic basis – it’s all cultural. Despite the fact that we are not passive beings, it is words, attitudes and experiences to shape our personality. My life, who I am and what I do, is indeed conditioned by the presence of a charismatic granddad – Mario Giacomelli.  And what he has said and done within our family unit has left a mark that enriches my life – for better and for worst.

The photographic collection named ‘Puglia’ on show at the Atlas Gallery in London, has attracted many visitors, amongst them several Pugliesi. They seemed to relate to the subjects of this collection as if they were some old distant relatives – they had almost forgotten about. Why London for the Puglia exhibition?
It is because Ben Burdett – Atlas Gallery – after visiting the archive chose the series ‘Puglia’ so impressed he was by the historic details contained therein.
It is also because I like London for its cultural dimension. Am also hoping to have future exhibitions there maybe with Giacomelli’s abstract paintings – not many people actually know that he is also the author of a healthy production of oils.

One of your exhibitions – Senigallia 2008 – saw the presence of the President of the Italian Republic, Giorgio Napolitano. Undoubtedly, this must have been a remarkable occasion. However, has there been another particularly gratifying moment or time of your career/life?
For that occasion I was called to speak on the works of Mario Giacomelli in the presence of the Italian President.
I have been working with the Archive for two years and have studied thousands of documents planning new events and new books that can provide a better idea of who Giacomelli really was. It is during this time that I have really got to know my grandfather. Undoubtedly, this has been a most gratifying time for me.

And the most difficult – how have you overcome it?
To discover that in Italy, in the world of culture (this is a paradox), it’s not always enough to have good ideas, good materials to realise projects. The publishing world and culture in general is a complicated time-wasting machine.

What is hope?
Hope is what helped me overcome some bad moments without losing faith when faced with adversity.

Does 'perfection' exist?
Perfection does not exist. Only things that are not ‘for ever’ are perfect.

What is your next dream?
As far as Mario Giacomelli is concerned, my dream is to be able to promote new exhibitions and new books that can better represent the artist thus showing that he is a contemporary artist reflecting torments typical of his time.
My own dream, on the other hand, is that of being able to paint with fulfilling passion.

What advice do you have for any young professionals working around the world?
Believe in your ideals - don’t be scared to experiment new stuff and don’t be in a hurry – this is what I am doing.

Which book will you pack for your next holiday?
Without a doubt, it’s got to be La Congiura dei Simili” by Domenico Sivilli, my life companion who, amongst other things, has Pugliese background.

Which is your favourite film?
There cannot be just a favourite film … I love the cinema. The director I feel most attuned with is David Lynch – all his films are ‘my favourite film’. There is also David Cronenberg, who manages to make me emotional every time I see any of his films.

 

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