Tragicomica at MAXXI: 300 Works Narrating Italian Art from the Second

The exhibition

Tragicomica at MAXXI examines how tragic and comic registers coexist in Italian art over the past eighty years. The show brings together more than 130 artists and around 300 works to offer an alternative reading of Italy's contemporary visual culture, focused on irony, provocation and paradox.

What to see

• Key works by Lucio Fontana and Piero Manzoni, challenging orthodox artistic forms.
• Large-scale installations such as Roberto Cuoghi’s cakes and Manzoni’s Living Sculpture.
• Multimedia and performative pieces, from Enzo Cucchi’s videogame to Paola Pivi’s pandemic mosaics.
• Iconic portraits and ironic self-portraits by artists like Maurizio Cattelan and Alighiero Boetti.

Exhibition layout

The display avoids strict chronology: works are paired to create new dialogues, revealing recurring attitudes and unexpected contrasts. Highlights include the opening in Gallery 3, a dedicated videoroom, and themed terraces where sculptures, videos and performative objects interact.

Featured artists (selection)

• Gianfranco Baruchello
• Lucio Fontana
• Piero Manzoni
• Maurizio Cattelan
• Roberto Cuoghi
• Paola Pivi
• Chiara Fumai
• Alighiero Boetti
• Giuseppe Penone
• Carol Rama

Why go

The show presents a layered narrative of Italian contemporary art, emphasizing how humor, subversion and cultural mixing have shaped artistic responses to social and political themes. It’s recommended for both art enthusiasts and those interested in critical perspectives on cultural production.

Practical information

The exhibition is accompanied by a Marsilio-published catalogue and a program of public talks spanning cinema, literature and performance. Check the museum's official channels for updated opening hours, ticketing and complementary events before your visit.