V&A welcomes Donatello
Art lovers in the UK are in for a treat as London’s V&A Museum prepares to stage the first major UK exhibition dedicated to the work of Renaissance master Donatello. Donatello: Sculpting the Renaissance will take place from 11 February to 11 June 2023 and aims to offer a fresh vision of the artist and his impact on the artistic world. Featuring many works that haven’t been on display before in the UK, including Donatello’s early marble David, the exhibition will explore Donatello’s innovations, collaborations and inspiration within the context of 15th-century Italy, as well as his influence on later artists. “Donatello was a driving force behind the Italian Renaissance and an inspiration to artists across the centuries,” said Peta Motture, lead curator of the exhibition. “The exceptional opportunity to collaborate with our partners in Florence and Berlin, together with the generosity of all lenders, has made it possible for the V&A to present a remarkable insight into the artist’s training, relationships and legacy.” www.vam.ac.uk/exhibitions/ donatello-sculpting-the-renaissance
Romes loves Russell
Russell Crowe’s award-winning depiction of the generalturned-gladiator Maximus in the 2000 movie lent the actor an enduring association with Rome, and he was feted for his role by the city during its 2022 film festival. The mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, presented Crowe with a plaquebut took time out to meet Gualtieri at City Hall on Capitoline Hill and receive the honour. The film star still feels affection for this city, the home of real gladiators in ancient times, and in Italian declared to its people: “I am always at the service of Rome.”
