22 June – 7 July, Palazzo Scarciglia, Lecce
A land to be told by combining “the strength of Sparta, the grace of Helen, the audacity of the Byzantines, the sensuality of the Romans and the magic of the alchemists”. In perfect Puglia style, in short, a region of widespread and multifaceted beauty that cannot be fully illustrated except through broad words full of complex meanings. A challenge taken up by “D’Puglia: forging heritage, designing tomorrow”, an event in its first edition that puts the spotlight on the inexhaustible reservoir of artistic and natural resources of this land, new and ancient, involving a global community of visionaries in promoting the territory.
Appointment at Palazzo Scarciglia, a tourist-cultural hub in the sublime heart of the city of Lecce entrusted to the care of ArtWork, from next June 22nd (and until July 7th), to closely appreciate the works of Alessandra d’Urso, Antonio Arico, Cosma Frascina, Diego Cibelli and Galleria Antonella Villanova, Peter Matthews, Rachel Hayes, Renzo Buttazzo, Luca Bray, Blomour, Plant Passenger, Tatiana Gecmen Waldeck and learn about the virtuous collaborations that will link D’Puglia to Flags for Future by Utöpia & ’74, Pino Pascali Foundation and Yeast Human Biodiversity. D’Puglia collaborates with the Fiermonte Museum for the artists’ residence. D’Puglia’s program will continue during Miami Art Basel Week.
Founded, produced and curated by Gordana Zgonjanin, with her approach to the style of multidisciplinary and disruptive creative strategy, D’Puglia represents a way to highlight the Adriatic region’s dedication to artistic excellence and sustainable practice through captivating events, annual showcases , charity galas and art exchanges. Without neglecting the philanthropic initiatives created with “Save the Olives” and the activities for younger people coordinated with WWF and GAL: the objective is to preserve the natural and cultural heritage of Puglia. “There are places in this world that simply beg to be crossed, destinations that appeal to our desire for adventure and curiosity,” explains the curator, “and others that invite us to stay, to immerse ourselves completely and to cultivate a deeper connection with the Earth. Puglia, in the heart of Italy, is one of these places. This region, similar to a mother’s embrace, tells stories of perseverance, strength and love. Puglia becomes a metaphor for the participatory beauty of life, inviting us to dig with our hands in its rich land and leave lasting imprints of passion and devotion.”
Because in Puglia, continues Gordana Zgonjanin, “beauty is not simply observed; it is lived through active participation. The flows of passion here fuel an inner fire, pushing us to roll up our sleeves and engage with the land… Puglia cradles us like a mother with two strong arms—the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea—while our heads rest on her heart, the earth. Her landscape, full of stories of resilience, strength and love, reflects her personality. Her seas change with the winds, reflecting her moods: calm and inviting one moment, stormy and fierce the next. Yet, her heart remains a safe haven, a cave where we can always find comfort.”
