Francesco Clemente – Artwork & Bio of the Italian Painter

Francesco Clemente was an Italian painter born on 23 March 1952 in Naples, Italy. Clemente initially studied architecture at the Univerity of Rome, where the artist reports to have suffered an existential crisis in his late teenage years before turning fully to art. In 1971, he held his first exhibition at the Galleria Giulia in Rome, showing his first works on paper.

Subsequently, Clemente studied under sculptor Alighiero e Boetti, with whom he traveled to India in 1973, and discovered a philosophical concept that would recurringly reflect in his works. In the early 1980s, Clemente exhibited The Fourteen Stations, a series of twelve oil paintings, at the Whitechapel Art Gallery in London. He also collaborated with other artists and poets, regardless of differing styles.

Clemente has also worked as an itinerant artist, traveling widely to paint and explore. The late 1990s and early 2000s saw Clemente rise to recognition and prominence, especially in the American art scene. Experimenting with mixed media since the mid-2010s, Clemente continues to create works that challenge traditional philosophical ideologies.

What is Francesco Clemente Known For?

Francesco Clemente is known for painting works that question the philosophies of self-identity and humanity. He expertly communicates his ideas to the viewers using human figures, vivid colors, and a dark tone in his works. Clemente works primarily in watercolor or oil paints and gouache (which dominated his early works).

Who was Francesco Clemente Infuenced By?

Francesco Clemente was influenced by the philosophies of the singular self and individual consciousness. Clemente also constantly surrounded himself with artists and poets. Artists who influenced his work include Pier Paolo Pasolini and Jean Renoir.

What Art Movement is Francesco Clemente Associated With?

Francesco Clemente is associated with the Neo-Expressionism art movement.