Valerio Nicolai

Valerio Nicolai employs the canvas as a stage to juxtapose art history's revered themes with elements of the ordinary and mundane. The conventional still life, serving as a vehicle for both straightforward depiction and enigmatic symbolism, is transformed into contemporary commonplace objects, images, and everyday scenarios. Within Nicolai's fictional tableaux, drama and humor intertwine, creating a dynamic interplay between elevated artistic subjects and the realistic, absurd manner in which they manifest.  

Biography of Valerio Nicolai

Valerio Nicolai was born in 1988 in Gorizia, Italy. Having pursued his education at the Accademia delle Belle Arti in Venice, Nicolai's artistic journey has been marked by notable achievements.

Nicolai was honored with the Pollock-Krasner Foundation grant for the 2020-2021 period, further underscoring his talent and dedication to his craft. Additionally, in 2023, he received the esteemed Licini Prize, recognizing his significant contributions to the arts.

His recent solo exhibitions include "Sole con le code" at Clima in Milan (2022), "Birthmarkers" at Galeria Madragoa in Lisbon (2021), "Amarena" at Clima in Milan (2019), and many more.

Valerio Nicolai's works have also been featured in numerous group shows, including "Diario Notturno" at MAXXI L'Aquila in Rome (2024), "PickPocket" at Fondazione Zimei in Montesilvano (2023), "Expectations" at Fondazione Zimei in Pescara (2022), "Movie Buff" at All Stars in Lausanne (2021), among others. 

Currently, Nicolai resides and works in Milan.