Museum of Modern and Contemporary House Cavazzini
Museum | Udine | Friuli-Venezia Giulia | Italy
The "Museo d'Arte Moderna e Contemporanea" in Udine, known as Casa Cavazzini, is a significant museum of modern and contemporary art in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. It is located in the historic center of Udine and was renovated in a 16th century building under the direction of architect Gae Aulenti.
Collections and Exhibitions
The museum houses an extensive collection of artworks from the late 19th century to the present. Special highlights include:
Works by the Basaldella brothers: Dino, Mirko, and Afro Basaldella are among Italy's most important artists of the 20th century. Their works are a central part of the collection and reflect the development of modern art in the region.
Astaldi Collection: This collection includes masterpieces by internationally renowned artists such as Giorgio de Chirico, Alberto Savinio, Filippo de Pisis, Carlo Carrà, and Santomaso. Donated to the museum in 1982 by Maria Luisa and Sante Astaldi, it enriches the collection with significant works of Italian modern art.
FRIAM Collection: The FRIAM Collection consists of 113 works by significant American artists like Willem de Kooning, Carl Andre, and Frank Stella. These works were donated by the artists themselves after the 1976 earthquake, adding important pieces of American contemporary art to the collection.
Architecture and Surroundings
Casa Cavazzini is an outstanding example of the fusion of historical architecture and modern museum design. During the renovation, valuable 14th century frescoes depicting secular themes were uncovered, providing insight into Gothic painting in Friuli. Additionally, a 16th century Venetian cistern and prehistoric ceramics from the Iron Age were discovered and are now displayed in the museum.
Educational and Cultural Offerings
The museum regularly organizes special exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events aimed at a wide audience. These programs promote understanding of modern and contemporary art and provide a platform for dialogue between artists and visitors.
Overall, the "Museo d'Arte Moderna e Contemporanea" in Udine offers a comprehensive overview of the development of modern art in Italy and beyond, and is a significant cultural attraction in the region.
