Futurism at The Guggenheim

Debuting on February 21, 2014, the Guggenheim New York presents “Italian Futurism: 1909-1944: Reconstructing the Universe”. This landmark show is the largest retrospective of the “Futurismo” artists ever held outside of Italy. 

Founded by Filippo Tommaso Marinetti in 1909, Futurism was a complete rejection of anything old or traditional. Changing industrial practices and new inventions fueled the group of painters, writers, composers and even politicians. Technology, speed and machines were all typical themes in Futurist works. The effect would eventually ripple beyond the arts and even influence Mussolini’s fascist party which rose to power in the 1930’s. 

The Guggenheim has been able to borrow rarely seen murals by Benedetta Cappa, which have been displayed in a Palermo post office since their commission in 1933 and 1934. Long dismissed by scholars, this is a great opportunity to re-examine the movement and appreciate its progressive and even avant-garde sensibilities. Futurist principles have always influenced The Brvtalist and if in New York from now until September 1, 2014, this is a must see exhibition. 

For more information visit the Guggenheim Museum. 

Photo credit: The New York Times, AGR/Riccardi/Paolini, The Art Newspaper