M.C. Esher in Rome, Part III

I really enjoyed the Escher exhibition at Palazzo Bonaparte, not just because of the amazing concentration of his art, but also because there was an interactive, playful side to the exhibit. And by playful, I mean grown-ups lining up (and queuing is not exactly something Romans are particularly known for) to enjoy and play with these parts of the exhibit.

As I noted in part one of this post, the playfulness started with, of all things, the floors. Then the floors got really freaky!

How much fun is this?! Or, how safe is this?

Throughout the exhibit, there were places where you could re-create some of Escher’s works — using your own face! Here are a couple of mine.

 

The exhibit ended by showing Escher’s influence on art, and cinema, and even advertising.  For example, there is this IKEA add,

IKEA ad, a fun homage to Escher (sorry about the reflection)

And, a frame from the hit show, Squid Game, the various stairs leading to the feeling of anxiety:

Squid game still

The exhibit also was playing a Harry Potter scene where the staircases move, which was fun. The exhibit had a section of contemporary art that has been inspired by Escher.

Victor Vasarely, Réponses à Vasarely, 1972

 

Bernie’s Mittens by Francine Champagne made me laugh. It refers to the January 2020 meme of U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders on Presidential Inauguration Day wearing his oversized mittens, winter coat, and Covid mask.

There were some colorful Escher-inspired works in a black light room:

Then you entered a crazy room of mirrors, which made you feel like you were standing in a crazy Escher world.  Great fun!

 

 

The Escher exhibition runs through April 1, 2024 at at Palazzo Bonaparte. It’s well worth going!

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In the heart of Rome's Historic Center, between the beautiful Spanish Steps and the famous Trevi Fountain, this luxury two bedroom, two bathroom apartment is surrounded by fine dining and fabulous shopping. It is within walking distance of the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and many other historic sites and museums, and near the subway, taxi stands, bus stops, and bike rental. Located in a traditional Roman palazzo, the apartment was fully renovated in late 2010 and is now available for vacation and short-term rental.