by InTrieste
Nestled in the picturesque Carnian Alps, the small village of Illegio has, for the past two decades, been quietly transforming itself into a cultural beacon. This transformation is driven by an annual exhibition that artfully combines the promotion of the region’s rugged terrain with a display of extraordinary artistic masterpieces, designed to both elevate and inspire its visitors.
This year’s exhibition, titled “Courage,” was unveiled in a presentation on Monday morning. The Vice Governor for Culture of Friuli Venezia Giulia extolled the virtues of the show, highlighting its dual mission: to shine a spotlight on the mountainous area and to move those who encounter the remarkable works on display.
“Courage” is set to run from June 18 to November 3, 2024, in the village’s Casa delle Esposizioni. It features a curated selection of 40 masterpieces, ranging from Perugino to Caravaggio, and from Kandinsky to Pomodoro. Notably, eleven of these pieces are drawn from private collections, making them accessible to the public for the first time. This collection spans an impressive timeline of 2,500 years, offering a profound journey through the ages of artistic endeavor.
During the presentation, the Vice Governor lauded the “San Floriano Committee,” the organizers behind this event, for their unwavering dedication. “The Committee has achieved a significant milestone: transforming an idea into reality, and thought into action,” he remarked. “Their efforts have not only spotlighted a remote village but also created an event of exceptional quality and profound depth.” The committee’s work, he added, has been marked by consistency, passion, attention, and enthusiasm, setting a standard for cultural initiatives.
The theme of this year’s exhibition, courage, is particularly poignant. “Courage is an ancient theme, revisited through the centuries, and now, it resonates deeply in our current era of profound societal change,” noted the Vice Governor. The exhibition aims to provide a reflective and enriching experience, prompting visitors to ponder the varied manifestations of courage throughout history and in contemporary times.
Adding a spiritual dimension to the event, a personal letter from Pope Francis to the exhibition’s curator, Don Alessio Geretti, was also shared during the presentation. In it, the Pope expressed his admiration for what he described as the “miracle of Providence” embodied by Illegio’s artistic exhibitions.
As Illegio prepares to welcome visitors from near and far, it stands as a testament to the power of art to transcend its immediate environment, transforming not just spaces, but also the hearts and minds of those who engage with it. The exhibition invites visitors to embark on a journey of beauty, reflection, and, above all, courage.
