RAÚL DE NIEVES: WHEN I LOOK AT YOU I SEE THE SUN
Press Release
BVLGARI IS PLEASED TO PRESENT RAÚL DE NIEVES AT ART BASEL
Bvlgari reinforces long-standing commitment to the arts, collaborating with non-profit Art Production Fund for a public sculpture commission by Raúl De Nieves.
Artist Raúl De Nieves takes us on a journey through ancient Roman mythology on a fantastical carousel, playing on the codes and heritage of Bvlgari, the Master of Colored Gemstones and Roman Magnificence. Following his celebrated installation during the 2017 Whitney Biennial, De Nieves’ partnership with Bvlgari marks the first major public sculpture commission for the artist. Presented in partnership with Art Production Fund, When I Look in to Your Eyes I See the Sun will be displayed at The Faena Hotel in Miami Beach from Dec 5 to Dec 10.
The cycle of life, metamorphosis and mythology are concepts that speak to the Mexican Artist and Roman Jeweler alike. Together, they see and share beauty through color with a powerful and daring energy. Examining the Roman origins of Bvlgari, combined with their extensive exploration of imagery most notably through the Serpenti Collection, Raúl De Nieves explores the mysteries of antiquity where the serpent was venerated as a symbol connecting the mortal to the transcendent. He examines the concept of metamorphosis and the circular nature of the serpent in these ancient traditions to represent them in the form of a carousel.
Raúl De Nieves’ carousel draws parallels with Bvlgari in various ways. Its baroque ornamentation takes inspiration from the iconic color combinations found in the stones of Bvlgari’s high jewelry collections. The archetypal beasts and personages populating the carousel with colorful beads reference the Serpenti collection, central to Bvlgari’s collection. The carousel floor replicates the black and white mosaic pattern found in the Caracalla Baths of Rome and in the Diva’s Dream collection of jewelry. The facades are painted an emerald green and include stained glass panels recalling the churches of The Eternal City. Finally, De Nieves intricate and exhaustive focus on artisanal excellence parallels that of the world famous jeweler.
Bvlgari has been a long-standing supporter of the arts and culture. From Andy Warhol to establishing the Maxxi Bvlgari Prize, with the first Italian national museum dedicated to contemporary creativity. Representing the rich history of Bulgari’s Roman roots, the Raúl De Nieves Commission will serve as the brand’s next chapter in furthering its connection to the arts.
“We are thrilled to take part once again in Art Basel and partner with Art Production Fund for this commission by Raúl De Nieves. Jewelry making is an art, and by supporting other artists—whether they’re painters or sculptors—we seek to bring craftsmanship and beauty to a wider audience.” said Jean-Christophe Babin, Chief Executive Officer Bvlgari Group.
“It has been in incredible experience learning about the history of Bvlgari and the Roman origins of the brand. During my travel to Rome and extensive exploration of the Serpenti Collection I have been especially inspired by the themes of transcendence and rebirth as demonstrated in the constant evolution of the design. I’ve taken inspiration from all aspects of the brand and its history and realized them in the ultimate object of beauty, joy and celebration, the Carousel,” said Raúl De Nieves.
“It is an honor for Art Production Fund to partner with Bvlgari on Raúl De Nieves’ first major public sculpture commission. Bvlgari’s heritage and its long standing support of the arts perfectly complements Raúl De Nieves, whose work is so deeply rooted in symbolism and history,” said Casey Fremont, Executive Director of Art Production Fund.
BVLGARI
Part of the LVMH Group, Bvlgari was founded in Rome in 1884 as a jewelry shop. Quickly establishing a reputation for Italian excellence, Bvlgari enjoys renown for exquisite craftsmanship and magnificent jewelry creations. The Company's international success has evolved into a global and diversified luxury purveyor of products and services, ranging from fine jewels and watches to accessories and perfumes, and featuring an unrivalled network of boutiques and hotels in the world's most exclusive shopping areas.
RAÚL DE NIEVES (b. Morelia, Michoacan, Mexico, 1983) is a multi-media artist, performer, and musician. His body of work encompasses narrative painting, decadent multimedia performance often with his band Haribo, large-scale figurative sculpture, live music, ornamentally crafted shoes, and garments. De Nieves has exhibited widely, including at MoMA PS1, The Museum of Art and Design, Rod Bianco Oslo, Mendes Wood DM Sao Paulo, and Shoot the Lobster. He has performed at Performa 13, Documenta 14, MoMA PS1, ICA Philadelphia, The Kitchen, Artists Space, Real Fine Arts, and numerous other venues. He was included in MoMA PS1’s Greater New York 2015 and the Whitney Biennial 2017. De Nieves lives and works in Brooklyn, and is represented by Company Gallery New York and Freedman Fitzpatrick, Los Angeles / Paris.
ART PRODUCTION FUND is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to commissioning and producing ambitious public art projects, reaching new audiences and expanding awareness through contemporary art. Past projects include: Elmgreen & Dragset,“Prada Marfa,” Valentine, TX, Ugo Rondinone, “Seven Magic Mountains,” Las Vegas, Jeff Koons, “Seated Ballerina,” Rockefeller Plaza, NYC, Zoe Buckman, “CHAMP,” LA. artproductionfund.org
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