Enzo Plazzotta, an Italian-born sculptor, left an indelible mark on the art world with his expressive and dynamic compositions. Plazzotta’s sculptures, which often depicted human and animal figures in motion, showcased his unique ability to capture movement and emotion.
A Journey from Italy to London:
Born in Mestre, near Venice in Italy, in 1921, Plazzotta’s early passion for art led him to study sculpture at the prestigious Accademia di Brera in Milan.
However, his studies were interrupted by the outbreak of the Second World War, during which he joined the Italian partisans to fight against fascism.
After the war, in 1947, he made his way to London, where he flourished as an artist and gained international recognition for his exceptional talent.
Plazzotta’s sculptures can be found everywhere around the world, including London, where his presence is particularly felt. Prominent locations like The Barbican Centre, Westminster Abbey, and the Royal Opera House proudly showcase his remarkable talent, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty and emotive power of his creations.
Capturing Movement and Emotion in Sculpture
Plazzotta’s sculptures are renowned for their ability to capture the essence of movement and emotion. His mastery over marble and bronze allowed him to breathe life into his creations, making them appear fluid and dynamic.
With a particular fascination for dancers, he skilfully translated the grace and athleticism of the human body in motion, the dynamic energy and fluidity of dance, into his sculptures.
Plazzotta is also known for his clever use of light and shadow. He often placed his sculptures in outdoor settings, where the play of light and shadow would create a constantly changing effect, giving his sculptures an additional dimension of dynamism and evocativeness.
Inspiration
Throughout his career, Plazzotta maintained a close connection with the world of dance. His sculptures of dancers are among his most celebrated works. Pieces such as “The Young Dancer” (1965) and “Jeté” (1975) serve as testaments to Plazzotta’s ability to capture the grace and poise inherent in their performances.
The iconic ‘Young Dancer,’ is situated in Broad Court, just opposite the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. This sculpture captures the youthful spirit and vitality of a dancer in mid-performance, frozen in time, suspended in a moment of grace and beauty.
Enzo Plazzotta married Ann James, a British ballet dancer, in 1961. Their marriage was a partnership of artistic collaboration and mutual support. Ann served as both a muse and a model for many of Plazzotta’s sculptures, and their relationship greatly influenced his work. Together, they had two children.
Public Art in London
Enzo Plazzotta’s sculptures can be found throughout London, enriching public spaces with their presence. One notable example is ‘Homage to Leonardo,’ located in Belgrave Square. This captivating sculpture pays tribute to the genius of Leonardo da Vinci, featuring the famous Vitruvius man designed by the Maestro 5 centuries earlier.
But Plazzotta’s talent extended beyond secular subjects, as seen in the poignant sculpture ‘The Crucifixion,’ located in Westminster Abbey’s College Garden.
Legacy And International Recognition
Enzo Plazzotta’s sculptures were met with acclaim not only in London but also across Europe, the United States, and Australia. His work resonated with art lovers from all backgrounds, appealing to both the artistic elite and the general public.
Beyond his artistic achievements, Enzo Plazzotta also made significant contributions to British art through his teaching and writings. He served as a professor at the Royal College of Art from 1965 to 1975, nurturing and inspiring a new generation of sculptors. Additionally, his written works, including “The Language of Sculpture” (1969) and “Sculpture: The Creative Process” (1977), shed light on his creative insights and artistic philosophies.
Enzo Plazzotta passed away in London in 1981, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a major figure in British sculpture.
Paul
