Emiliano Perino & Luca Vele: A Duo Exploring Sculpture’s Paradoxes

Emiliano Perino & Luca Vele, born in New York City and Rotondi, Italy respectively in 1973 and 1975, represent a compelling force within contemporary sculpture. Their artistic partnership began in 1994, fostering a collaborative exploration of sculptural language that continues to evolve with remarkable consistency. Based currently in Rotondi (Campania), they are recognized for their distinctive approach—a fusion of tradition and experimentation—characterized by monumental forms crafted from recycled newspaper pulp and papier-mâché. This technique isn’t merely a material choice; it embodies a philosophical stance, mirroring the duo's preoccupation with dismantling and reconstructing matter itself, reflecting on societal critiques and engaging in dialogues with art history.

Early Influences & Artistic Genesis

The genesis of Perino & Vele’s artistic vision can be traced back to their formative years, steeped in the intellectual currents of New York City and influenced by seminal movements like Arte Povera and Surrealism. Their initial explorations centered on repurposing discarded materials—primarily newspapers—transforming them into sculptural forms that simultaneously celebrate materiality and interrogate its symbolic significance. This deliberate selection of medium speaks volumes about their commitment to confronting societal issues through art, mirroring the broader ethos of questioning established norms and embracing paradoxical perspectives. The duo’s fascination with papier-mâché stems from a deep respect for ancient sculpting traditions while simultaneously pushing boundaries within contemporary practice.

Technique & Conceptual Framework

At the core of Perino & Vele's artistic process lies a meticulous dissection and reconstruction of material—a concept directly inspired by Heidegger’s reflections on being. The transformation begins with pulping newspapers, extracting their essence before reshaping them into monumental sculptures that defy conventional notions of form and scale. This technique isn’t simply about manipulating materials; it represents an active engagement with the sculptural language itself, mirroring a broader preoccupation with dismantling preconceived ideas and reconstructing meaning from raw elements. Their work is marked by a subtle provocation—a refusal to adhere to simplistic narratives—and consistently examines the complexities inherent in contemporary society. The resulting sculptures are silent yet profound, conveying layers of critique and autonomy that resonate beyond their physical presence.

Exhibitions & Recognition

Perino & Vele’s sculptural explorations have garnered international acclaim, securing prominent positions within prestigious museums and galleries across the globe. Notable exhibitions include “The Big Archive 1994-2014” at Galerie Eva Seidlmayer (Vienna), showcasing a comprehensive retrospective of their oeuvre; “Emiliano Perino” at He Xiangning Art Museum (Shenzhen); and “Luca Vele” at National Academy of Painting, Pechino. These exhibitions underscore the duo’s commitment to disseminating their artistic vision—a dialogue between tradition and experimentation—and solidifying their place as pivotal figures in shaping the landscape of contemporary sculpture.

Legacy & Continuing Exploration

Emiliano Perino & Luca Vele's enduring contribution to art lies not only in their distinctive sculptural style but also in their unwavering dedication to confronting societal issues through artistic inquiry. Their work continues to provoke contemplation on themes of materiality, memory, and critique—a testament to the transformative power of reimagining familiar materials within innovative conceptual frameworks. As they move forward, Perino & Vele remain committed to pushing boundaries within sculpture’s expressive potential, ensuring that their legacy persists as a beacon of artistic experimentation and intellectual engagement.