Mario AVATI, Black in Light
17 November 2017 - 28 September 2014
Made possible by a gift to the Museum from Helen Avati in 2011, this selection of 80 prints presents surprising and moving works that shed light on the daily life of an engraving magician.
French painter and artist Mario Avati (1921-2009) has restored the mezzotint technique to a position of honour. The technique is demanding, meticulous and delicate. It gives compositions a great depth and creates an unreal space out of which rises the motif. Surrounded by absolute blackness, objects, animals, fruits and vegetables are revealed by light and colour. They tell us a story, plunge is into the mystery and the poetry of things. Here, the cherries are a reference to musical notes; there, butterflies rise up in a nocturnal flight. They are subjects whose spare treatment is not without humour.
To lend life to Avati’s still lifes and awaken the five senses, workshops for old and young alike will be offered on the theme of Art and Flavours concomitantly with the exhibit from 17 April through 28 September. Your senses will stay awake with the various concerts and events held for the European Heritage Days (Saturday, 20 October and Sunday 21 September, 2014.
For schoolchildren, contact Educational Outreach at 03 44 10 40 58 for more information.
