Cipollino Paintings in VinOsteria
While thinking about what to create for an Italian trattoria setting, my thoughts turned naturally to Italy’s deep connection with food—and to Signor Pomidoro. The character came to mind immediately because the story of Cipollino and the fruit-and-vegetable revolution, written by Gianni Rodari, was wildly popular in the USSR. The animated adaptation is still a masterpiece in my eyes.
These paintings are part of a duplex series currently on show at @vinosteria16. They reflect my ongoing interest in storytelling through fables and allegories as a way of expressing political and social critique.
The first painting features a quote from Rodari’s book:
“Since we introduced the air tax, you have begun to breathe less! Outrageous!”
In this tale, Prince Lemon rules as a tyrant, with Signor Tomato as his sycophantic advisor. Their absurdity and cruelty speak volumes even today.
The second painting includes this translated quote:
“Prisons are built for those who steal and kill, but for Prince Lemon it is quite the opposite: the thieves and murderers are in his palace, and in the prisons there are honest citizens.”
These satirical, revolutionary fairy tales resonate strongly with my approach to art—as a playful, poetic yet pointed way to speak about injustice, resistance, and imagination.
