Retracing the Life of Maria Lai, Mother of “Relational Art,” in Sardinia

Fri, 05/05/2023 - 08:25
Maria Lai libri cuciti on display at the Biennale di Venezia 2017 / Photo: Kristina Kostova via Dreamstime
Maria Lai's "libri cuciti" (stitched books) on display at the 2017 Venice Biennale / Photo: Kristina Kostova via Dreamstime
“I played with great seriousness. At some point they began to call my games art.” – Maria Lai

I first “met” Maria Lai while visiting Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, one October. In a half-hidden, graffiti-colored square, the artist’s name is printed on a stone slab propped up on a metal post in front of a pink wall and beneath two residential balconies. Across the way are one or two well-maintained trees — lusher than you might expect so close to the equator — along with the

Unlock the full story

Elevate your experience by becoming a Premium Member today and unlock limitless access to our exclusive Italy intelligence along with a host of members-only perks:

  • Unlimited access to premium digital content

  • Weekly newsletters exclusively crafted for members

  • Bellissimo quarterly digital magazines

  • Buongiorno monthly newsletters

  • Access to a collection of eBooks and mini-guides

  • Exclusive monthly offers and downloads

  • An ItaliaPass Primo membership providing savings of $249+ on your Italy trip

Immerse yourself in the richness of Italy with unparalleled benefits and insights for less than the cost of a cappuccino per week!