Pulcinella by Gaetano Pesce: the work between ironic comments and contemporary art

On October 9, 2024, Naples welcomed a new artistic installation that is causing a lot of talk about itself: “You are something big”, the 12-meter-high sculpture by Gaetano Pesce inspired by the Pulcinella mask. The work was inaugurated in Piazza Municipio, next to the Maschio Angioino, but immediately generated a heated debate among citizens and on social media.

Pulcinella by Gaetano Pesce, a sculpture between provocation and controversy

The work “You are something big”, made by Gaetano Pesce and presented in Naples, has aroused mixed reactions, in particular for its stylised shape of Pulcinella which, according to many, explicitly recalls a phallic symbol.

Although the artist's stated intent was to pay homage to the traditional Neapolitan mask, the sculpture became the subject of irony and criticism on social media, quickly turning into a topic of public discussion.

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Some have perceived the stylistic choice as not suitable to represent Neapolitan culture, considering it a excessive provocation.

Faced with these controversies, the mayor Gaetano Manfredi expressed his support for the work. The mayor also stated that contemporary art has the task of stimulating reflection and debate. Manfredi also underlined how this installation can contribute to strengthening the image of Naples as a center of artistic and cultural innovation.

Costs and duration of the exhibition

The work “You are something big”, created by Gaetano Pesce before his death in April 2024 in New York, had a total cost of 180.000 €, of which 160.000 financed by the Campania region.

The sculpture will remain on display until 19 December 2024, but given the great media interest it has generated, there is already an intention to find a permanent location in Naples.

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Regardless of the criticism or appreciation received, the work has already deeply marked the cultural panorama of the city. This artistic provocation has triggered a debate on the role of public art and its ability to generate reflections and discussions.

In the coming months, it will be interesting to observe how the public perception of the work evolves and whether it will be considered a permanent addition to the urban fabric of Naples.