The exhibition “Autumn Sun: The Rediscovered Masterpiece” reopens to the public at the “Giovanni Segantini” civic gallery in Arco, celebrating the return of a fundamental work by the artist after seventy years of absence. The exhibition, which will run until January 26 with a special opening on Epiphany, represents a significant opportunity for art enthusiasts and local visitors.
A Rediscovered Masterpiece
The painting “Autumn Sun,” created by Giovanni Segantini in 1887, finally comes to light after decades of obscurity. This work was conceived during the period when the artist moved from Brianza to Switzerland, marking a crucial phase in his artistic evolution. The exhibition, curated by Niccolò D’Agati, highlights not only the aesthetic beauty of the painting but also its significance within Segantini’s creative journey.
Purchased by the Municipality of Arco for three million euros from the Bottegantica gallery in Milan, this masterpiece represents one of the most significant public acquisitions related to Italian 19th-century art and marks the city’s largest acquisition of Segantini’s works since 1927. Not exhibited since 1954, “Autumn Sun” is now part of Italy’s public heritage and contributes to revitalizing studies on the artist and 19th-century painting.
An Installation That Highlights the Work
The exhibition’s setup is designed to emphasize the importance of the work within its historical and artistic context. The painting reflects the technical and chromatic innovations characteristic of Segantini’s production in the years following his move to the Grisons. The canvas captures the essence of autumn light through pure colors and textured brushstrokes that outline natural figures immersed in a mountainous landscape.
The work presents a naturalistic vision that departs from previous sentimental interpretations, approaching a more universal conception defined by the artist as “naturalistic symbolism.” In particular, the painting connects to contemporary works such as “As the Snow Melts” and “Yoked Cows,” underscoring Segantini’s stylistic evolution.
A Lasting Connection with Arco
On the occasion of the 125th anniversary of the artist’s passing, the civic gallery focuses on the important relationship between Arco and Giovanni Segantini. This connection is also evidenced by the commission for the monument dedicated to the artist, created by Leonardo Bistolfi.
The collecting history of “Autumn Sun” is equally fascinating: from the gallerist Alberto Grubicy to the Dall’Acqua family and then to the Rossello collection. This work has thus traversed decades of Italian artistic history before becoming accessible to the public once again.
Visiting Details
The exhibition is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM; it will be closed on Mondays except for Epiphany (January 6). From January 28 to March 31, visits will be available by reservation for schools and groups, with guided tours in various languages.
Italian Version
