Rome: Etruscomix, Etruria in Comics, 30 June – 25 October 2009

May 15
17:26

2024

Michele De Capitani

Michele De Capitani

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Comics are often dismissed as mere children's entertainment, but they are a powerful art form capable of conveying complex narratives and emotions. The "Etruscomix, Etruria in Comics" exhibition in Rome, running from June 30 to October 25, 2009, showcases how comics can intersect with archaeology to create a unique storytelling experience.

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The Art of Comics

Creating comics is a sophisticated art form that combines images and words to communicate in ways that other media cannot. Comics have proven their narrative power not only through the literary value of many graphic novels but also by their ability to depict historical events and reinterpret literary classics. This exhibition demonstrates that comics can stand on par with other art forms,Rome: Etruscomix, Etruria in Comics, 30 June – 25 October 2009 Articles offering unique insights and perspectives.

Etruscomix: A Fusion of Comics and Archaeology

"Etruscomix, Etruria in Comics" aims to introduce visitors to the Etruscan civilization, which has left significant traces in various parts of Italy. The exhibition features works by six Italian comic-strip artists—Francesco Cattani, Marino Neri, Paolo Parisi, Michele Petrucci, Alessandro Rak, and Claudio Stassi—who spent several days immersed in historically rich locations such as the National Etruscan Museum Villa Giulia in Rome, the Necropolis della Banditaccia in Cerveteri, and the Museum of Tarquinia.

Featured Works

Each artist created a piece inspired by Etruscan culture and artifacts. The titles of these works include:

  • "Etruria" by Claudio Stassi
  • "Una Partenza" (A Departure) by Marino Neri
  • "Adonie" by Alessandro Rak
  • "L’episodio del fabbro" (The Episode of the Blacksmith) by Francesco Cattani
  • "Netvis" by Michele Petrucci
  • "Viaggio" (Travel) by Paolo Parisi

These works will be displayed alongside archaeological finds at the National Etruscan Museum Villa Giulia, offering visitors a unique blend of art and history.

Exhibition Highlights

The exhibition is expected to attract a diverse audience, including comic enthusiasts and history buffs. The plates will also be displayed in the museums of Cerveteri and Tarquinia, enriching the visitor experience at these locations.

The Exhibition Poster

The exhibition's poster, created by renowned Italian comic-strip artist Milo Manara, draws inspiration from the Sarcophagus of the Spouses at the Villa Giulia Museum. The characters on the poster seem to invite visitors into an Etruscan home, symbolizing the exhibition's goal of opening a window into history.

Practical Information

  • Tickets: 4 euros, reduced 2 euros
  • Dates: June 30 – October 25, 2009
  • Location: National Etruscan Museum Villa Giulia, Rome, Italy

Interesting Facts

  • The Etruscan civilization, which flourished between the 8th and 3rd centuries BCE, significantly influenced Roman culture, particularly in areas such as religion, architecture, and governance.
  • Comics are a global phenomenon, with the comic book industry generating approximately $1.21 billion in North America alone in 2020 (Source).
  • The National Etruscan Museum Villa Giulia houses one of the most important collections of Etruscan art and artifacts in the world.

Conclusion

"Etruscomix, Etruria in Comics" is a groundbreaking exhibition that bridges the gap between comics and archaeology, offering a fresh perspective on the Etruscan civilization. Whether you're a fan of comics or a history enthusiast, this exhibition provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Etruscans through the lens of contemporary comic art.

For more information on the Etruscan civilization, you can visit the British Museum's Etruscan Collection or the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Etruscan Art Collection.