From 1938 to the present day, since Professor Franco Anelli discovered our magnificent caves, the Grave has been the setting for countless events: theatrical performances, musical concerts, film screenings, book presentations, religious ceremonies, and much more. I take this opportunity to remind you that for months now, the Dante-inspired show “Hell in the Cave,” the largest resident performance in Puglia, has been taking place in the Grave.
Over the years, among the many cultural events that have been organized, it seems that a painting exhibition has never been held here—until now. From September 9 to 25, we will finally have the opportunity to admire one.
This is a truly significant event for our caves, perfectly harmonizing with the works of artist Andrea Benetti. It is a perfect match, as the Grave—one of the most renowned caves in the world—serves as the ideal setting for Benetti, an internationally acclaimed painter recognized worldwide as the founder of Neo-Cave Art, which he himself presented in 2009 at the 53rd Venice Biennale.
One of the primary goals of Neo-Cave Art is to promote respect for nature and for humanity, reviving the earliest form of artistic expression—the cave paintings created by primitive humans on the rocky walls of their dwellings in an effort to win the favor of supernatural forces.
It is with great satisfaction that I note how this unique exhibition—never before staged in any cave or karstic environment, in Italy or abroad—will, for the first time, be hosted within our extraordinary underground complex.