CHICAGO, IL.- This exhibition, co-presented by the MCA and the Palazzo Grassi, Venice, explores Italian art and creativity from the late 1960s to the present. It offers an unprecedented look at the artistic production of a country where cultural change has often been defined by the persistence of the past, revealing a deep sense of originality and vitality on the part of numerous artists whose work spans all media.

Whether embracing classical roots or breaking away from traditions, Italian artists active during the past forty years are at ease both with the fragmented languages of the present and the realities of social transformation. Reflecting the idiosyncratic paths carved by Italian artists and resisting the artificiality of groupings and movements such as Arte Povera, the project attempts to counter a tendency within Italian culture to curb individuality and experimentation.

Including work by more than 75 Italian artists, Italics is not just an exhibition about art made in Italy but, more importantly, demonstrates how these artists have forged new identities from deep roots blossoming in many different directions. This exhibition is guest curated by Francesco Bonami.