The exhibition documents the artistic production of Nino Franchina (Udine, Italy, 1912 –Rome, 1987), famous for his large iron constructions with aerodynamic forms and informal matrixes.
Franchina’s works present a dual dynamic: on one hand a tension toward higher points and an extension beyond the confines; on the other a need to define and close the form. This internal contrast gives rise to a plastic dynamic that the artist exasperates with a persistent verticality and extreme distension.
The artworks on display include Realtà nuova (1949), a sculpture characterized by a formal tension in which the penetrating elements acquire plastic aggressiveness through twisting movements; Calandra (1953), which elevates toward the top; Come un istrice (1958) and Magaria (1958), characterized by a decidedly plastic effect; and L’uccello di fuoco (1960), in which the tension toward the higher element expands with a contained force. Last but not least, Inox con lacerazione rossa (1974) and Icaro (1963) render concrete the dialogue between verticality and formal attention.
Venue of the exhibition: Fondazione Prada, via Maffei 2, Milan