Cesare Catania is one of the most eclectic contemporary Italian artists, capable of combining painting, sculpture, and technology into a unique expressive language.
His artworks, characterized by vibrant colors and innovative materials, convey deep emotions and current themes, ranging from abstractism to digital experimentation.
In this exclusive interview, we explore his artistic journey, the inspirations behind his creations, and his vision of the future of art.
From the use of mixed techniques to the fusion between tradition and innovation, Catania offers us an authentic glimpse into its creative universe.
Let’s discover together what inspires him, what challenges he has faced, and how he sees the role of art in today’s world.
How do you see the current contemporary art market and what are the main challenges an artist must face today to emerge?
The contemporary art market is extremely complex and diversified, with a variety of approaches and dynamics that evolve rapidly. Globalization and immediate access to information through digital channels have made the sector more accessible, but also more competitive.
Today, for an emerging artist, the main challenge is to stand out in a saturated landscape, not only for their technical skills but also for the ability to communicate an authentic and innovative vision.
The influence of the market is increasingly strong, and often we witness a trend that favors commercial value over artistic value. However, I believe that art should remain a personal and cultural expression, capable of leaving a mark regardless of economic logic.
How important do you consider the artistic coefficient for the enhancement of an artist? And how was your personal coefficient established?
The artistic coefficient is a useful tool, but not absolute. It is a sort of indicator that allows for evaluating an artist according to more or less objective parameters, such as the number of exhibitions, the value of the works sold, recognition by critics, and presence in the market.
In my case, the coefficient was established based on my artistic career, the exhibitions I have participated in, the recorded sales, and the perceived value of my works over time. However, I believe that art cannot be confined only to numbers and quotations; it is essential that the value of a work is also recognized for its emotional and cultural content.
In your opinion, what are the key elements that determine the value of a work of art today?
The value of a work of art is determined by multiple factors, including the historical and cultural context in which it is born, the originality of the artist’s vision, the technique employed, and the ability to communicate deep emotions.
Today, with the digitalization and the expansion of global markets, the value of a work is also influenced by its visibility and the narrative surrounding it. Authenticity and uniqueness remain fundamental pillars: a work that manages to establish a dialogue with the public, evoke reflections, and maintain its relevance over time acquires an invaluable value.
What is your opinion on contemporary art today? Do you believe it is more oriented towards the market or towards experimentation and research?
Contemporary art moves in a precarious balance between market and experimentation. On one side, there is a strong commercial component that pushes towards the creation of works oriented towards sales and immediate success.
On the other hand, there are still artists who believe in experimentation and research, working on innovative and out-of-the-box projects.
The real problem is that the market tends to influence artistic dynamics, often leading to a standardization of works to meet demand. I believe that the future of art must be able to balance these two aspects, without sacrificing creativity in the name of profit.
What role does technology play in your art and how do you see the integration between traditional art and innovations like NFTs?
Technology plays a central role in my artistic production. I believe that the integration between traditional art and new technologies is one of the most stimulating paths for the future of creativity. The NFT, for example, represent an extraordinary innovation, as they offer the possibility to uniquely certify a digital work, making it unique and traceable.
However, the NFT world is still in development and is often misunderstood as a mere speculative tool. Personally, I see in this technology a great potential to democratize art and make it accessible to a wider audience, without losing touch with the physicality and material of traditional works.
What are you trying to convey to your collectors through your works? And what advice would you give to a young collector?
Through my works, I seek to convey emotions, universal concepts, and a vision of the world that is both personal and collective. Art for me is a means of communication that transcends words and manifests through colors, textures, and shapes.
To a young collector, I would advise relying on their own instinct, to deepen the knowledge of the artists who fascinate them and not to purchase works solely with an investment perspective. Art must be experienced and loved above all for its intrinsic value.
How important is the dialogue with critics and curators in your artistic journey?
The dialogue with critics and curators is fundamental for the growth of an artist. Critics help to contextualize the work and offer new interpretations, while curators are essential for providing a coherent exhibition direction and enhancing the works in the right context. Without constant interaction, there is a risk of working in a self-referential bubble, losing opportunities for evolution and deepening.
How does Cesare Catania view the international market compared to the Italian one? What are the main obstacles or opportunities for Italian artists?
The international market offers greater opportunities for visibility and enhancement of art compared to the Italian one, which unfortunately tends to be more closed and less structured in promoting emerging artists. However, Italian art enjoys unparalleled historical prestige, and those who manage to enter the right circuits can find a very receptive audience abroad.
Cesare, are you working on new projects or exhibitions that you can share with us?
I am currently working on a series of projects that explore the fusion between physical sculpture and digital art, creating immersive experiences through augmented reality. I have several exhibitions planned where I will present these new works.
Do you believe that art can be a tool for global connection, capable of overcoming cultural and linguistic barriers?
Absolutely yes. Art has the unique power to create a universal language capable of uniting people, regardless of cultural and linguistic differences. It is a bridge between different worlds, a means to communicate ideas and feelings in a direct and immediate way.
Image: The Violinist of Barcelona (B Version)” – Cesare Catania (Inspired by the “Four Seasons” by Vivaldi) Year: 2016 Dimensions: 170 cm x 120 cm Technique: Oil and acrylic on canvas
As expert in digital marketing, Amelia began working in the fintech sector in 2014 after writing her thesis on Bitcoin technology. Previously author for several international crypto-related magazines and CMO at Eidoo. She is now the co-founder and editor-in-chief of The Cryptonomist and Econique.
She is also a marketing teacher at Digital Coach in Milan and she published a book about NFTs for the Italian publishing house Mondadori, while she is also helping artists and company to entering in the sector. As advisor, Amelia is also involved in metaverse-related project such as The Nemesis and OVER.
