The Luigi Pecci Centre for Contemporary Art in Prato is an extremely important art institution in Tuscany. Not only is it a rare example of such an institution (especially on such a scale), dedicated to contemporary and modern art, it is also an exceptional building in its own right. In fact, you'll not likely miss the structure if you've found a villa with pool in Prato and are exploring the area. Looking like something between a spaceship and a warehouse, it is a very distinctive building and houses a whole host of treasures, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the city. If you are lucky, you might get the museum practically to yourself, allowing you the time and space to wander at your leisure.
As noted, such spaces, dedicated to “new” art, are rare enough in Tuscany which often seems to focus on its grand art historical past. Therefore, it is a bit of a treat to stumble on such a museum and can make for a bit of a break from stuffier, more old-fashioned exhibitions. It is also an interesting museum as it takes into account paintings, sculptures, architecture, design, fashion, photography, video, film, theatre, dance and music. The Luigi Pecci centre is home to over 1000 works of art and visiting exhibitions, once-offs and special projects are also often a feature of the display. It is not merely an exhibition centre, however, but a space for ideas, debate and research.
The centre was first designed in the 80s by a Florentine architect named Italo Gamberini, who was an important supporter of the Tuscan Rationalist Movement. It was founded in memory of the son of the Industrialist Enrico Pecci and its collections developed from donations by the city administration, various companies, business people and private citizens. The complex is made up of a main u-shaped building including an open-air theatre connected by a covered tunnel to the Visual Arts/IDC, the Graphic Arts rooms and the offices. The various buildings are also connected by a green area in which there are several large sculptures belonging to the collection. A project to enlarge the centre is still on-going and will be completed in October of this year.
With an outstanding setting, permanent collection and exhibitions from the most important international contemporary artists, such as Enzo Cucchi, Julian Schnabel, Mario Merz, Vito Acconci, Gilberto Zorio and many others, the Pecci Centre is a must for art-lovers visiting Tuscany.
With an outstanding setting, permanent collection and exhibitions from the most important international contemporary artists, such as Enzo Cucchi, Julian Schnabel, Mario Merz, Vito Acconci, Gilberto Zorio and many others, the Pecci Centre is a must for art-lovers visiting Tuscany.
Photo credits
Picture 1: Massimilianogalardi
/ CC BY-SA 3.0;
Picture 3: Fabrizio / CC BY-SA 3.0
Picture 1: Massimilianogalardi
/ CC BY-SA 3.0;
Picture 3: Fabrizio / CC BY-SA 3.0
