The Third Paradise
Michelangelo Pistoletto

Before we discussed about Michelangelo Pistoletto in class, I never knew that the “purple flower” on top of ADM building was his art work. I was not able to see the full picture of the infinity sign and was wondering why the change? However, I got to understand more about his work from the documentary film in ADM library.

In the film, Michelangelo Pistoletto mentioned that the third paradise is a fusion between the first and second paradise. The first paradise where humans were fully integrated into nature and the second paradise is the artificial paradise produced by human intelligence through science and technology. Where as the third paradise is a balanced connection between artifice and nature.

I feel that a work like this created by mankind was “forced” to changed/grow as the natural environment changes. Did they manage to find a balance between the nature and artificial through this art work? The amazing thing is nobody knows if it does help in balancing because it is up to the individual perspective.

“The artificial world has provided mankind with comforts, but also led to the deterioration of our natural environment,” said Mr Pistoletto.

During the lecture, Michelangelo Pistoletto also mentioned the Arte Povera movement literally “Poor Art” where it goes back to simple, humble and organic materials like everyday objects. It is not just about money but more about making art without the restraints of traditional practices and materials.

One of Michelangelo Pistoletto art work, The Walking Sculpture, where the artist rolled a newspaper sphere across many city streets. This performances has been done many time in many different locations over the last 50 years. It is an act of dissonance against both traditional methods of art making and behavioural norms.

Having a art work that is able to be inside or outside of an exhibition is definitely something new. The idea of having people to interact with the art work not only encourage human participation with the art but also with one another where it brings out Michelangelo Pistoletto’ main concern of connecting with each other.