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“Painting has always been a part of me, even as a child when I depicted the world around me—old people conversing, little birds, farm animals, chickens, bulls, rusty tools, landscapes—and dreams always accompanied me.”
An Artistic Journey Rooted in Versatility
Marcello Scarselli‘s artistry stands out for its unique blend of abstraction and figurative elements, marked by a vibrant palette and bold compositions. His use of primary colors such as yellow, red, and green creates a lively dialogue within each piece, contrasting with softer pastel backgrounds to draw the viewer’s eye. This dynamic interplay between colors and forms results in works that are both visually stimulating and compositionally sophisticated. Scarselli’s art often features stylized figures and objects rendered with a whimsical simplicity, reflecting a deep understanding of form and space. These elements come together to make his art accessible, yet profoundly engaging.
Scarselli’s journey as an artist began in the early 1970s, a time of rich aesthetic experimentation. Participating in numerous group exhibitions, he became an integral part of the lively artistic debates of the era. Critics like Luca Nannipieri, Riccardo Ferrucci, and Giovanni Faccenda have described his work as a synthesis of sign and color, a pictorial universe rich in visions and fragments, and a hybrid abstraction where familiar forms emerge. From his childhood, painting was a constant companion, with Scarselli depicting everyday scenes and dreams with a sincerity that continues to influence his work today.
His compositions often explore the tension between organic shapes and geometric rigidity, creating a harmonious yet intriguing visual experience. The inclusion of black and white striped patterns and linear elements adds a graphic quality reminiscent of printmaking. Scarselli’s ability to combine these diverse elements into cohesive works speaks to his meticulous approach and deep artistic vision. This blend of abstract expression and figuration defines his unique artistic voice, making his work both contemporary and timeless.
Marcello Scarselli: A Personal Artistic Evolution
Throughout his career, Marcello Scarselli has been the subject of numerous writings by prominent art historians and critics. Names like Dino Carlesi, Luca Nannipieri, and Maurizio Vanni have explored his defigurative effects, informal experimentation, and hybrid abstraction. Despite these varied interpretations, Scarselli maintains that his style is deeply personal, refined through years of dedication and research. His focus on gestural sign-based informal art highlights his preference for a transparent figure balanced with the architectural structure of his work.
In Scarselli’s studio, the environment is a testament to his creative process. Surrounded by memories and objects, rolls of canvas, jars of acrylic paints, and tools for engraving, his workspace is meticulously organized to support his artistic endeavors. Music, particularly Pink Floyd, often accompanies his creative sessions, providing a backdrop that enhances his concentration. Scarselli’s method involves both vertical easels and horizontal planes, allowing for a dynamic interaction with his materials and the canvas.
This meticulous preparation and execution are evident in his geometric patterns and repetitive motifs, which add rhythm and structure to his work. Some pieces explore a minimalistic and abstract approach, using restrained color palettes and focusing on texture and form. These reductive compositions, dominated by monochromatic schemes or subdued colors, showcase his versatility and ability to convey depth and emotion through simplicity. Scarselli’s art is a vibrant celebration of form and color, a testament to his continuous evolution as an artist.
Inspirations and Aspirations in the Artistic Realm
Marcello Scarselli draws inspiration from a pantheon of 20th-century artists, including Picasso, Afro, and Miró. Their unique contributions to art have profoundly influenced his personal research and artistic path. This journey is characterized by a relentless pursuit of creative freedom, allowing him to develop a distinctive style that is both original and deeply resonant. His admiration for these artists is reflected in his own work, which combines a deep respect for tradition with a contemporary sensibility.
One of Scarselli’s most cherished works is “Friday of Celebration,” a mixed media piece created in 2010. This 140×140 cm canvas is part of the “Humanitas Machinae” collection, which has been showcased in prestigious venues such as the Palazzo dei Medici in Florence and the Piaggio Museum in Pontedera. The artwork depicts the machinery of a mechanical workshop against a red background, capturing the dynamic energy and anticipation of workers planning their weekend. This piece is not only visually striking but also rich in emotional value, encapsulating the essence of a moment in time.
Scarselli’s preferred medium is a mix of acrylics and other materials, applied to meticulously prepared surfaces. His studio is equipped with various tools and techniques to facilitate his creative process. While he primarily works with these materials, his willingness to experiment with different media highlights his versatile approach to art. Each piece is a testament to his ability to blend technique and emotion, creating works that resonate on multiple levels.
Marcello Scarselli: A Vision for the Future
In the digital age, Marcello Scarselli has embraced Instagram as a vital platform for engaging with a global audience. Through his account @marcelloscarselli.artist, he shares his work, thoughts on art, and engages in meaningful dialogues. This social media presence allows him to maintain a constantly visible exhibition and archive of his work, often leading to commissions and collaborations. Instagram has become an essential tool for Scarselli, providing a space to showcase his evolving artistic journey.
Scarselli’s ultimate dream is to participate in the Venice Biennale, one of the most prestigious art exhibitions in the world. He sees this as an opportunity to fully express and present his works on an international stage. This aspiration reflects his ongoing commitment to his craft and his desire to reach broader audiences. The Venice Biennale represents not just a goal but a platform where his unique artistic voice can resonate globally.
As Scarselli continues to explore new themes and techniques, his work remains a vibrant synthesis of form and color. His dedication to his art, combined with his willingness to embrace new platforms and opportunities, ensures that his creative journey is far from over. With each piece, he adds to a body of work that is both a personal exploration and a universal celebration of artistic expression.
