Massimo Listri Photographs: the new show by the artist at Manifattura Tabacchi

From September 29 to November 14, a dialogue between art and history that guides us to rediscover iconic places

“He discovers a fullness, a richness, where we see only sadness and abandonment, as in this case. He frames theatrical perspectives where we can scarcely contemplate the sad decline of a building after the collapse of industry.” Sergio Risaliti

Back in 2019, Massimo Listri created a project for Firenze made in Tuscany magazine, during the early stages of the restoration work at Manifattura Tabacchi. Sergio Risaliti’s words perfectly sum up the viewer’s feelings on seeing Listri’s images of this city space, which was returned to Florence several years ago.

Massimo Listri Fotografie at Manifattura Tabacchi

These two images are the opening notes in a wonderful symphony of 19 large-scale works by the Florence-based photographer, including iconic shots and several pieces never previously displayed, on show at Manifattura Tabacchi itself until 17 November. This superb solo exhibition becomes an intense and rhythmic immersion in Massimo Listri’s world: along with interiors of the Manifattura complex, interpreted through Listri’s unique history-steeped lens, there are other extraordinary places including the Palace of Versailles, the Royal Palace of Caserta, the Vatican Apostolic Library, the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg and the Royal Palace of Naples.

Reggia di Caserta by Massimo Listri

These works exemplify Listri’s photographic language, which uses colour, light and perspective to impart an aura of holy silence to these historical sites, allowing the viewer to enter spaces which, although devoid of human presence, come to life by rediscovering their original beauty.

Perspective is one of Florence’s greatest achievements of all time. It was a genuine revolution, thanks to Filippo di Brunelleschi, who changed the art world forever. And since then, very few have mastered perspective as he did.

Massimo Listri Fotografie at Manifattura Tabacchi

One of these few is undoubtedly Massimo Listri, Florentine not by accident, one might say, who has the ability to read and interpret places, transmitting their testimony: poetic yet at the same time so authentic and real that it almost feels you can enter his photos and walk around, completely alone and marvelling at the pure beauty of these timeless spaces. Because it is they - the most magnificent palaces and major museums, extraordinary villas and architectural wonders - in all their naked glory, that are the protagonists of his work. Empty of human presence, except indirectly, but but alive and vibrant. The experience is abstract, almost metaphysical.

Opening hours:
The exhibition can be visited inside building B11, entrance from Via delle Cascine 35.
The exhibition can be visited Tuesday through Friday from 2 to 8 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday from 12 noon to 8 p.m.
Free admission