Caltagirone: Between Emotions and Roots
"We always return to where we felt good - I Vaci"
Project: "Made in Italy"
Location/Year: Catania/2025
Dimensions: 130x150x2 (cm)
Technique: Acrylic on canvas
Collection: Private (W. Vacirca - Catania)
DESCRIPTION AND GENESIS OF THE WORK
This work was commissioned by Walter, who contacted me after seeing some of my works displayed in the windows of a major store in the center of Catania.
He wanted a family portrait that was, at the same time, a tribute to his homeland.
Our first meeting, which took place in a downtown bar, was crucial in defining the project's design direction.
From the very beginning, Walter's deep bond with his family and his roots emerged,
in particular with the city of Caltagirone, symbol of the Baroque
Sicilian and an identity heritage of extraordinary value.
From these premises came the idea of a portrait that was not only representative of people, but also of the values, culture, and history of an entire community.
In the work, the protagonists are depicted while sharing a moment of conviviality,
intent on playing with the traditional Sicilian Modiano cards.
They are sitting on the steps of the majestic Staircase of Santa Maria del Monte,
one of the most significant examples of Baroque architecture in Sicily,
which here becomes a visual metaphor for growth, ascension and success.
The entire iconographic system is built around symbols full of meaning:
A pair of pigeons alludes to kindness and lasting love;
A ball represents perfection and absolute balance;
The Three of Cups symbolizes abundance and personal and family fulfillment;
The Golden Seven, a traditionally winning card, is an omen of prosperity and success.
The work thus takes the form of a family portrait that goes beyond simple representation, transforming into a visual narrative that celebrates identity, memory, and harmony.
It is also a tribute to the city of Caltagirone, an authentic expression of Sicilian Baroque and a living testimony to the cultural beauty of our country.
