Umani: José Molina Exhibition Coming to Villa Bernasconi

Villa Bernasconi is set to host the upcoming exhibition Umani, featuring the acclaimed Spanish artist José Molina. Curated by Luigi Cavadini and Chiara Garrone, this exhibition invites visitors to explore the depths of human nature through powerful imagery and emotional narratives.

Artistic Vision

José Molina’s work reflects the complexities of the human experience, raising critical questions about what it means to be human in today’s world. His art juxtaposes themes of fear and courage, examining humanity’s ongoing journey and the transformation of crises into opportunities for rebirth. The exhibition highlights Molina’s ability to merge classical influences with contemporary themes, offering a unique perspective on the human condition.

Featured Works

Among the standout pieces in the exhibition is Sogno di una lunga notte d’inverno (Dream of a Long Winter’s Night), renowned for its vibrant colours and intricate storytelling. A notable centrepiece, Europa II, reinterprets the figure of Philip IV of Spain on a surreal hybrid creature, encouraging viewers to reconsider historical and modern notions of power. The exhibition also includes three sculptural works: Io immagino (I Imagine), Io dubito (I Doubt), and Io ricordo (I Remember), which invite deeper contemplation of the human psyche.

This exhibition reflects the essence of an artist who has made Italy his home, currently residing on the shores of Lake Como. Umani aims to take viewers on a visual journey into the understanding of the human experience.

Molina’s collection presents fragments of time, viewed through the artist’s unique perspective. The central focus is the human condition, prompting visitors to explore the complexities of their own identities and consider the legacy they wish to leave behind. The artist expresses a fascination with humanity’s journey through time, emphasising the ongoing struggle between fear and courage.

The exhibition is described as “a painting of man, within man,” navigating between past and future, reality and dreams. Through compelling imagery, it captures the diverse experiences of human life, conveying emotional resonance that ranges from empathy to irony and subtle critique. Molina employs a captivating visual language to unveil human flaws while celebrating resilience.

Merging classical influences with contemporary techniques, the artist’s use of oil and acrylic paints creates striking colour effects. This exhibition not only showcases the depth of Molina’s artistic vision but also reaffirms art’s power to reflect and challenge our understanding of the human condition.

José Molina: A Brief Background

José Molina was born in Madrid in 1965. He began his artistic education at the age of eleven, showing early promise as a painter. After working in advertising, he completed his studies at the University of Fine Arts in Madrid. His art brings different worlds to life through drawings, paintings, sketches, and graphics, drawing inspiration from artists like Goya and the surrealism of Salvador Dalì.

Molina’s works have been presented in prestigious institutions such as Milan’s Museum of Science and Technology, the Civic Aquarium, and the Royal Palace of Caserta. He has a strong presence in both European and Asian markets and currently lives on the shores of Lake Como.

The exhibition Umani at Villa Bernasconi is anticipated to engage visitors in a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be human today.

Address: Villa Bernasconi

Via Campanini 2, Cernobbio 

March 21 – May 12, 2025

Opening Hours: Friday to Monday: 10:00 – 18:00

Ticket Prices: Standard: €8 | Reduced: €5 (for select categories)

Free Admission: Under 14s, over 75s, Cernobbio residents, disabled visitors with companions, teachers, and Abbonamento Musei holders.
Visitors presenting a Cernobbio parking ticket receive a €1 discount, and attendees of Teatro Sociale performances can enter for €5.

Advance Booking Recommended: For tickets and more information visit: www.villabernasconi.eu

Related articles:

The Most Anticipated Events on Lake Como

Best Places to See Wisteria Blossoms in Lake Como

Seven Books about Lake Como to Buy on Amazon