The sculpture's name, 'Calamita Cosmica' (Cosmic Magnet), refers to the artist's belief in the work's ability to exert a magnetic pull between the earth and the universe.
The skeleton has been displayed in various global locations, including the Palace of Versailles and the MAXXI in Rome, before its permanent installation in Foligno.
The nose of the sculpture points precisely toward the North Star.
The church housing the piece was originally built between 1762 and 1777 and retains its original structural features despite being deconsecrated.
Gino De Dominicis, the creator, was a controversial figure in the Italian art scene, often characterized by his avoidance of the mainstream art market.
The Esposizione Calamita Cosmica houses Gino De Dominicis's monumental skeleton sculpture within the deconsecrated Church of Santissima Trinità in Annunziata. The sculpture measures 24 meters in length and features a long, pointed nose reminiscent of Pinocchio. Constructed in 1988, the artwork uses a mix of plaster, iron, and resin to form a human anatomy that defies traditional scale. The piece was relocated to this specific Foligno site to dialogue with the baroque architecture of the 18th-century deconsecrated church. It is widely considered one of the most significant works of contemporary Italian art from the late 20th century.
From the entrance looking straight down the length of the nave to capture the full 24-meter span of the skeleton.
Walk around the entire perimeter of the nave to observe how the skeleton's scale interacts with the church's vertical architecture.
Visit the choir loft or upper vantage points if accessible to get an elevated perspective of the sculpture's length.
Do not mistake the exterior church facade for an active place of worship; it serves solely as an exhibition hall.
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Maintain a quiet tone appropriate for a former sacred space; photography is permitted but avoid using tripods.
