About the artwork
A bronze sculpture from 2018 depicts a standing, elongated figure with a bird-like head featuring a prominent, curved beak. The body of the figure is textured, appearing to be composed of intertwined, organic forms that suggest roots, branches, or perhaps draped fabric. The surface exhibits a rich, metallic sheen characteristic of bronze. The figure stands upright, its form tapering slightly towards the base, which also shows a similar organic, root-like texture. The overall impression is that of a creature or entity emerging from or composed of natural elements. The work is titled "Bugherlac" on the cartel, which is a name the artist has used for individual pieces within his larger "Branco" series of dog sculptures, where each element is named after one of the "ghost cities" globally. The piece measures 26.00 cm in height, 10.00 cm in width, and 12.00 cm in depth. The casting technique of bronze allows for the detailed rendering of the textured surface and the distinct features of the head and beak. The sculpture is a unique piece, indicating it is not part of a numbered edition.
Expert opinion
Velasco Vitali occupies a position within the contemporary Italian art scene, recognized for his contributions to both painting and sculpture. His work, particularly his sculptural output, often engages with themes of nature, urban decay, and the human condition through symbolic representations. The market for his art has shown consistent engagement, with works appearing regularly in auctions and gallery exhibitions. His sculptures, especially the dog series, have been featured in notable installations and exhibitions, contributing to his market visibility. The use of bronze, a traditional sculptural material, combined with contemporary forms and thematic concerns, positions his work in both established and evolving collecting contexts. The market performance data indicates a healthy percentage of his works selling above or within their estimated ranges, suggesting a stable demand for his artistic production.
About the artist
Velasco Vitali, born in Bellano, Italy, in 1960, is a painter and sculptor who lives and works in Milan. His artistic career began with an encounter with Giovanni Testori and participation in the "Artisti e Scrittori" exhibition in Milan. After early solo exhibitions, his painting focused on the tragedy that affected Valtellina in the late 1980s, culminating in the "Paesaggio Cancellato" exhibition in 1990. In the late 1990s, Vitali was invited to the Rome Quadriennale and began exploring the ports of the Mediterranean and southern Italy, leading to projects such as "Isolitudine" (2000) with Ferdinando Scianna and "MIXtura" (2003) with Franco Battiato. His work was included in the MACRO collection in 2005. He has exhibited at the Venice Biennale (Italian Pavilion, 2011) and the Gherdeina Biennale of sculpture (2014). A documentary titled "Il Gesto Delle Mani," released in 2015, portrays him during the creation of a bronze sculpture. Vitali has maintained a focus on dog sculptures for approximately 15 years, utilizing various materials in their creation. These sculptures often evoke stray dogs found in Mediterranean cities, reflecting themes of survival and improvised spaces. His artistic approach often involves staging visual creations that encourage contemplation, rather than presenting explicit interpretations or narratives.
Additional info
Certificate
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