Salvo

Salvo, born Salvatore Mangione on May 22, 1947, in Leonforte, Sicily, was a prominent Italian artist who made significant contributions to both conceptual art and traditional painting. He moved to Turin with his family in 1956, where he spent most of his artistic career.

Salvo initially became known for his involvement with the Arte Povera movement and his conceptual works in the late 1960s and early 1970s. His early works often included self-referential themes, such as his marble inscriptions bearing his name and photographs portraying himself in iconic poses. In the mid-1970s, Salvo shifted his focus back to traditional painting, creating vibrant and dreamlike landscapes. This return to painting was inspired by classical art, particularly the Italian Renaissance, and was marked by his use of vivid colors and simplified forms.

Throughout his career, Salvo participated in numerous solo and group exhibitions worldwide, including significant shows at the Venice Biennale, the Museum Folkwang in Essen, and the Kunstmuseum Luzern in Switzerland. His works are held in various prestigious collections, and his paintings have been auctioned internationally, with record prices reflecting his enduring popularity.

Salvo's transition from conceptual art to painting allowed him to explore themes of history, identity, and place, often depicting architectural ruins and timeless landscapes. His unique style has been compared to that of Giorgio de Chirico and Giorgio Morandi, reflecting a deep engagement with both the past and the contemporary art scene.

Salvo passed away on September 12, 2015, in Turin, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence and inspire the art world.