This week in Miami, the ever-inspired design and luxury furniture brand Natuzzi Italia united the international glitterati with “PUGLIA LOVERS” during Miami Art Week. The joyful event placed a dynamic installation by artist Agostino Iacurci at its heart within the brand’s elegant showroom, and unfolded In meaningful partnership with non-profit organization Save the Olives—a critical volunteer group confronting southern Italy’s Xylella Fastidiosa epidemic.
PJ Natuzzi, Agostino Lacurci at Puglia Lovers Art Basel 2024; courtesy of Natuzzi Italia, photo by Jason Lowrie, BFA.
Far left and right: artist Agostino Iacurci (courtesy of Natuzzi); Center: “Mediterranean Scrub” installation (BFA).
Artist Agostino Iacurci Shines Within the Open Art Project by Natuzzi
Lyrically titled “Mediterranean Scrub: A Journey Between Memory and Ecological Transformation,” Iacurci’s bountiful and experiential artwork was presented as an integral element of the Open Art Project by Natuzzi. This enthralling endeavor brings together multidisciplinary creatives to show their groundbreaking works of art within the opulent scenography of Natuzzi’s latest design collections.
Esteemed guests were greeted by “Mediterranean Scrub” as it cascaded across the Natuzzi Miami facade, offering a sculptural and colorful olive branch. The ethereal Mediterranean voyage continued within the showroom, where a parade of expansive flags immersed all in the sleek, black silhouettes of organic flora and fauna. Vibrant moments reminiscent of the strawberry tree and poppy intermingled with organic elements of arugula, borage, and nettle plants, submerging visitors in the natural wonders of Italy and Iacurci’s own cherished childhood memories. A skillful juxtaposition of gossamer textiles and luxurious paints by the artist recalled both the delicate and powerful nature of the ravishing Mediterranean landscape.
During the soulful evening, the artist spoke to the catastrophe of Xylella Fastidiosa and the urging within his artworks to appreciate and protect our precious environment and natural resources.
Franklin Myrtle, George Hamilton at “Puglia Lovers” Art Basel 2024; courtesy of Natuzzi Italia, photo by Jason Lowrie, BFA.
Natuzzi Italia “Puglia Lovers” Art Basel 2024; courtesy of Natuzzi Italia, photo by Jason Lowrie, BFA.
Christina Mazurkevich, Dorian Mazurkevich at “Puglia Lovers” Art Basel 2024; courtesy of Natuzzi Italia, photo by Jason Lowrie, BFA.
Alcova Miami Debuts “Puglia Contemporary Land”
Coinciding with the spellbinding installation and event, Alcova Miami debuts “Puglia Contemporary Land,” a pivotal endeavor supported by the Puglia Region and Pugliapromozione Regional Tourism Board. Thoughtfully curated by Cristiano Seganfreddo, the vibrant past, present, and future of the splendid Apulian landscape is illustrated in a skillful dance of craftsmanship, design, art, and research.
Within this innovative project, a spotlight is placed on visionary contemporary furniture brands like Amura, Vero International, Da a, ceramics by Fratelli Colì with Antonio Marras, as well as Enza Fasano with Terraterra, highlighting Zoe Williams, Judith Hope, and Daniele Milvio. In addition, the project illuminates the social textile endeavor by Le Costantine alongside a tapestry by Agostino Iacurci, frescoes from Fabio Novembre for Affreschi Affreschi, reinvented paper by Paper Factor, gems from Nassi Lamps, and stone and olive wood designs offered by Pimar.
Looking forward, the inaugural issue of a “Puglia Contemporary Land” magazine will be distributed throughout the world next year, sharing the region’s deeply felt roots of natural majesty and transcendent human storytelling.
Natuzzi Italia “Puglia Lovers” Art Basel 2024; courtesy of Natuzzi Italia, photo by Jason Lowrie, BFA.
Natuzzi Italia “Puglia Lovers” Art Basel 2024; courtesy of Natuzzi Italia, photo by Jason Lowrie, BFA.
