Modern Art in an Ancient Setting …

As I wrote in my last post, I really enjoyed getting back to the Baths of Caracalla.

They were hosting a wonderful series of modern art installations at the time (“Sensitivity to the Environment”) by the late Italian artist Mauro Staccioli.

It delights me to see modern art in an ancient setting. The juxtaposition of the contemporary amid the ancient helps me appreciate both in a different way.

 

An enormous metal beam piercing one of the arches

 

Enjoyed that this piece was interactive since you walk under it

 

Probably my favorite installation, people were really enjoying these

 

Recalling the ancient obelisks of Rome

 

These three claws coming out of the ground line up with the three pieces of a broken column behind them

 

Red circles lining the outer walls of the site

 

This installation gives you an idea of the space in the underground area

 

Also in the underground area, the shadows felt like an integral part of this installation

We also had another surprise — a gigantic apple by Michelangelo Pistoletto. It pops out at you in one of the underground chambers.

A glimpse of Pistoletto’s apple

 

The huge apple, close up

The installation at the Baths of Caracalla has gone, but that’s not the only place where the old and the new meet.

A museum I need to get back to, and highly recommend, is Centrale Montemartini, with ancient sculpture set in a 1912 power plant — and no crowds. Very cool.

 

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In the heart of Rome's Historic Center, between the beautiful Spanish Steps and the famous Trevi Fountain, this luxury two bedroom, two bathroom apartment is surrounded by fine dining and fabulous shopping. It is within walking distance of the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and many other historic sites and museums, and near the subway, taxi stands, bus stops, and bike rental. Located in a traditional Roman palazzo, the apartment was fully renovated in late 2010 and is now available for vacation and short-term rental.