Paolo Staccioli

Paolo Staccioli, born in Scandicci, near Florence, Italy, in 1943, is a renowned Italian sculptor and ceramic artist. Initially, Staccioli began his artistic career as a painter and held his first solo exhibition in 1973. However, by the late 1980s, he transitioned to ceramics, creating terracotta bas-reliefs and experimenting with various glazing techniques. His training under the master craftsman Umberto Santandrea in Faenza played a crucial role in refining his ceramic techniques, particularly in the use of lustres, clays, oxides, and salts.

Staccioli's work often explores recurring themes and motifs such as horses, travelers, warriors, and cardinals. His sculptures are characterized by their whimsical yet profound nature, often resembling ancient artifacts with a contemporary twist. His horse sculptures, for example, are frequently depicted on wheels, reminiscent of Trojan or merry-go-round horses, evoking a sense of historical and mythological storytelling.

Significant cycles in Staccioli's work include his "Travelers" and "Warriors" series. These figures, often rendered in bronze or ceramic, convey a sense of timeless journey and silent endurance. His sculptures are imbued with a narrative quality, where each figure seems to be part of an ongoing story, bridging the past and present.

Staccioli has exhibited extensively both in Italy and internationally, including in countries like Belgium, Holland, France, England, Japan, and the United States. Notable exhibitions include those at the Museo delle Porcellane at the Pitti Palace in Florence and the Italian Cultural Institute in New York. His works are also part of prestigious collections, such as that of the Sultan of Brunei.

The sculptures in the provided image exemplify Staccioli's distinct style. The horse and the humanoid figure on wheels are typical of his work, highlighting his fascination with movement, history, and myth. These sculptures, with their elongated forms and simplified features, recall the influence of artists like Giacometti and Marino Marini, combining a sense of ancient tradition with modern artistic expression.

For more detailed information on Paolo Staccioli's work and exhibitions, you can refer to sources such as the Galleria Gagliardi and Kiesendahl+Calhoun Fine Art.