Andrea Roggi

Andrea Roggi was born in Castiglion Fiorentino, in the picturesque Italian region of Tuscany. Steering a path between painting and poetry, he experienced an artistic turning point as a young man when he visited the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella in Florence. Here he was spellbound by The Trinity, a fresco by Renaissance painter and his fellow countryman Masaccio. He enrolled in the studio of venerated sculptor Enzo Scatragli to train in sculptural techniques.

In 1991, Roggi set up his own studio and foundry where he could take his sculpture through the entire process, from initial idea, to casting, to patination. His exquisite and detailed sculptures are based on traditional tenets but have a bold and distinctive contemporary style. He uses the classic lost wax casting process to transform his clay models into pure bronze masterpieces. This is an elaborate but hugely rewarding process which as well as artistry requires patience, accuracy and commitment.

Roggi is a revered figure in Italy where he initiated the Art for Youth movement which was aimed at awakening an appreciation of art in all its guises amongst young people. The movement culminated with the inauguration of the Parco della Creatività, a magnificent sculpture park which was a natural outward evolution of Roggi’s own indoor studio and exhibition. Over the years the park has expanded to host exhibitions from young artists and offer playful experiences for children to promote the understanding and appreciation of sculpture as a unifying and culturally uplifting opportunity for all. Since 2000, he has collaborated with the University of Georgia and the University of Texas to share his knowledge and skill.

Roggi’s entrancing sculpture is featured in many art collections around the world and he has participated in various national and international exhibitions held at major venues such as the Olympia Grand Hall in London, the Ahoy in Rotterdam, the Grand Palais in Paris, the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco, the Fukuoka Oishi Gallery, and Fukuoka City Museum in Japan. His work is also on public display throughout Italy.