Nicholas Tolosa's works illuminate the Historic Center of Naples

In via Cirillo, in the heart of the historic center of Naples, two permanent works by the artist have been installed Nicholas Toulouse"Giancarlo Siani” and “Victor”. Curated respectively by Roberto Sottile and Massimo Sgroi, these works are part of the “viviacirillo” project conceived by Felice Riccardi. Each work is accompanied by a tag with a qrcode, and enriches a new artistic project that takes shape in the same street.

Giancarlo Siani

Nicholas Tolosa, with his tonal palette, explores the contrast between black and white, generating chromatic shades that create strong visual contrasts. His works range from narratives of historical scenes to tributes to famous people, offering a simple yet complete painting that allows for immediate visual reading. In the work dedicated to Giancarlo Siani, Tolosa not only exhibits his mastery of chromatic contrast, but manages to convey complex emotions through the expressive details of the journalist. This creation reflects the courage, hope and change embodied by the historical figure of Siani. The work reveals Tolosa's intention to focus on significant events in Neapolitan history, transmitting powerful messages with an incisive painting that invites deeper reflection. With precise tonal gradation, Tolosa's work combines art and history in a compelling narrative. The figure of Siani, a journalistic hero and symbol of truth and justice, is forcefully represented in black and white, confirming his legacy of courage and integrity.

Victor: The Paradox of the Sacredness of the Profane

The work dedicated to Victor Osimhen combines social contrasts that transform Naples into an ideal bridge between the Mediterranean and Africa. Osimhen's symbolic mask represents an intersection between the sacred and the profane, uniting the passion for football with the ancestral symbolism of African masks. It depicts the black and white of the city and its vocation for inclusion, finding more authentic expression in the Spanish Quarters, Forcella and other emblematic places of Naples. Tolosa manages to blend visual art and theater, bringing together narration and perception. Osimhen's mask, colored like the three Napoli shields, reflects the melting pot of the Neapolitan soul. The relationship between the spectator and the work has the feel of a shared ritual, underlining the bridge between people of different origins. Naples, through its mask, becomes an elastic fabric of symbols and passions.

Emoji Invasion: A New Art Project

After Nicholas Tolosa's installations, via Cirillo welcomes a new artistic project: “Emoji invasion project” by the artist Cupydo. This urban project aims to transform virtual emotions into physical reality, inviting especially the new generations to express their feelings with real gestures such as hugs and laughter, going beyond digital chats. The most significant emoji, almost 2 meters high, will represent the Sacred Heart of Jesus on a historic wall in Naples, a symbol of forgiveness and hope. The official presentation will take place on September 20, 2024, transforming via Cirillo into an authentic “artists' home”. Thanks to the support of merchants and citizens, this once degraded street is being repopulated with art and colors. With the essential help of local residents and merchants, the installation of hundreds of 3D emojis will make via Cirillo a visual explosion of emotions, celebrating a universal and ultra-contemporary language through art. The transformation of this street is making art accessible to all, revitalizing an important artery of Naples.