Nice Premium: You are dedicating a large-scale exhibition to the English artist Marc Quinn: what is the origin of this choice?
Robert Calcagno: This event is in line with the programming established since 2010, which aims to open the doors of the Oceanographic Museum to modernity and life, and to restore the historical links between Science and Art. Today I am pleased to host the exhibition conceived by Marc Quinn because, beyond his notoriety on the international scene, this artist’s universe shows a true convergence with the world of the oceans. The presentation of his works alongside our collections provides a fascinating insight into the dialogue between the two disciplines.
NP: The Littoral Zone, why this title?
RC: The Littoral Zone is an invitation to break down barriers between disciplines and to open minds. This is the very meaning of this title: a space where boundaries fade between land and sea, nature and culture, museum and modernity. The theme that links all of Marc Quinn’s works is that of life, its endless cycle, whose origins plunge deep into the oceans. The first work welcoming visitors is a monumental sculpture in the shape of a giant shell… the artist and the museum share a common territory. The path, from one room to another, has been designed to surprise and amaze our visitors, but also to provoke questions.
NP: Through this exhibition, what message does the Oceanographic Museum want to convey?
RC: Marc Quinn’s work celebrates the beauty and diversity of the world. It addresses everyone, even and perhaps especially those who are not traditionally aficionados of contemporary art. The emotions it generates are, in my opinion, the best way to raise awareness on environmental protection issues. Modern man must understand nature and learn to live by respecting it.
