Sculptor Pablo Damian Cristi is carving a marble sculpture underneath the pillars of the Royal Exchange live throughout December. The sculpture, titled “The Third Christ Carrying the Cross Giustiniani”, was commissioned by Prince Jérôme Luc Moneglia d’Giustiniani to form an Ideal Trinity, harmonising with two original renditions by the revered artist Michelangelo, which is owned by the Giustiniani family.
Renowned Sculptor Pablo Damian Cristi recently unveiled “The Third Christ Carrying the Cross Giustiniani” in its current state at the entrance of The Royal Exchange on November 18, 2023.
This monumental event in the heart of London marked the beginning of a two-month residency, a collaboration between the artist and Red8 Gallery, which will see the artist continue work on this historical sculpture live for the public.
Throughout November and December 2023, this public event will transform a historical London landmark into a vibrant hub of artistic exploration and community engagement. The event is a unique opportunity for the London public to witness art history in the making.
“The Third Christ Carrying the Cross Giustiniani” was proposed in 2018 by Prince Don Jérôme Luc Moneglia d’Giustiniani, representing the Giustiniani family’s rich history of arts patronage.
The Cristi Project, as it has become known, emerges from a profound aspiration to form an Ideal Trinity, harmonising with two original renditions meticulously sculpted by the revered artist Michelangelo half a millennium ago.
The proposed Ideal Trinity symbolises unity among countries, beliefs, cultures, and generations, marking a significant chapter in art history.
In an era where humanity seeks messages of peace and unity, the sculpture stands as a beacon of inspiration, bridging the gap between the past and present.
The residency aims to open the doors to the creative process, allowing the public to witness the artist’s inspiration, resilience, and raw emotions.
This initiative seeks to create a profound connection between the audience and both the artwork and its creator.
Transcending Borders: A Monumental Residency at The Royal Exchange London
At the heart of The Cristi Project lies an unwavering commitment to the community. As the sculpture makes its journey from Moneglia, Italy, to London, this project fosters a deep connection with local communities, embracing all generations and religions. To enhance accessibility and inclusivity, a tour spanning Europe, the USA, and Latin America is in the works.
This tour will bring audiences into the heart of the project, offering a transformative experience to art enthusiasts worldwide. Breaking away from the traditional norms, Pablo Damian Cristi is now making the world his atelier on this journey with The Cristi Project.
“It serves to showcase the creativity process and opens up my studio to the world, turning my world into my atelier.” – Pablo Damian Cristi.
During the residency, Pablo Damian Cristi and Red8 Gallery will host a series of events and activities, including Art Gallery Exhibitions, Live Sculpting, University Collaborations, an International Conference on Art and Philosophy, an Art Auction, The Second Unveiling of the Christ Gala, and the Immersion of the Madonna Quarry from Carrara hosted in the Red8 Gallery.
The live carving times:
Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays
Times: 10 am – 12 pm & 2 pm – 4 pm
About the Artist
Pablo Damian Cristi is a sculptor originally from Rosario, Argentina, and is now based in Carrara, Italy. Cristi’s sculpting practice explores form and expression in unconventional ways, utilising historical sculpting techniques to push the boundaries of contemporary sculpture.
After honing his skills at the renowned Nicoli studio in Carrara, Cristi now operates his own sculpture workshops in Carrara and London. Over the years, he has exhibited his work internationally, receiving awards such as the “Best International Sculptor of Contemporary Art” in Punta del Este in 2015, the “Marble Art Award” in Carrara in 2018, and the “Night and Day” Borghetti award in Torano in 2019.
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