Explore the world of argentine-italian painter, design-
er, illustrator, author and iconoclast leonor Fini (1907–
1996). she is arguably one of the most ferociously and
heroically independent female artists of the twentieth
century, and possibly one of the most controversial and
misunderstood.
This new exhibition fits into Palazzo Reale’s ongoing
focus on the recognition of women artists, highlight-
ing their role in society and culture. Frequently labelled
a surrealist, Fini never did consider herself a member
of that movement, her artistic identity free from rigid
frameworks and definitions. in order to showcase her
multifaceted nature, a wide selection of paintings, draw-
ings, photography, decorative art, fashion design and
costumes are on display.
Fini’s artistic production addresses fundamental issues
of contemporary society such as the questioning of
gender, identity, belonging, established models of fami-
ly, masculinity and femininity. The predominant themes
are questions of beauty and age and the true nature of
love and sex; she is known for her depictions of power-
ful and erotic women. her genius for stage and screen
design is evident in her numerous groundbreaking the-
atre decors; she also had a unique talent for film and
costume design.
Fini became a sensation not only as a major artist but
also because of the originality and impact of her per-
sonal style. her provocative and much-publicized life
created a persona of drama, mystery and intrigue; her
intelligence, wit and glamour accorded her celebrity sta-
tus in the art world beginning in the late thirties. The
list of people whom she knew or collaborated with, or
who were influenced by her, is a remarkable inventory
of the thinkers and artists of the 20th century.
Possessing exceptional independence, a highly origi-
nal vision and great charisma, Fini forged her life on
her own terms as a woman artist in a man’s world; she
lived passionately through her art and friendships, and
in the process became a fashion and feminist icon. she
staked her own claim on modernism and while not al-
ways in critical favour, her art continues to fascinate
and captivate, and is currently the subject of an enthusi-
astic re-evaluation.
Time: 10:45am
Venue: Palazzo reale, Piazza duomo (MM duomo)
Cost: €25 (guide+ticket+earpiece)
Sign-up: To reserve your place, please sign up with
gisella garbagnati at specialactivities@benvenuto-
clubofmilan.it and send payment to Benvenuto’s ac-
count: iBan iT59q0200801600000103996605 by
16 May, stating your name + leonor Fini.