“Pistoletto’s presence in the Olnick Spanu Collection and his significant contributions to the history of Magazzino resonate throughout the galleries of the museum. For the inaugural opening of Magazzino, the museum unveiled Stracci italiani (Italian Rags, 2007), a work that was commissioned to commemorate the anniversary of Italy’s unification. The tricolor Italian flag made of discarded fabric greets visitors upon entering the lobby. In 2017, Magazzino acquired Sfera di giornali (Newspaper Sphere), a sculpture composed during a reinvention of Pistoletto’s performance Scultura da passeggio (Walking Sculpture) staged throughout the entire Cold Spring community.

Welcome to New York (1979) is displayed for the first time in Gallery 8, alongside seven representative mirror works spanning from the 1960s to the 2000s. This immersive experience offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the evolution of the artist’s visionary works. Welcome to New York draws inspiration from the Statue of Liberty with its metal crown and multicolored rags cascading towards the ground—encapsulating and embracing the concept of multiculturalism and diversity. These elements symbolize the possibilities of growth and evolution, embodying the values of welcome and inclusivity associated with the United States.” — Magazzino Italian Art

Installation views of Welcome to New York! at Magazzino Italian Art, Cold Spring, NY. Photos by Marco Anelli / Tommaso Sacconi. Courtesy Magazzino Italian Art.