VATICAN CITY — The Vatican has collaborated with prominent figures such as Maria Grazia Chiuri, the creative head of Dior, renowned Italian artist Jovanotti, and Icelandic illustrator Kristjana S. Williams for a new exhibition centered on the world tours that characterized the late 19th century.
Titled “En Route,” this event marks the sixth in a continuing series designed to connect the rich history of the Vatican’s library, which dates back to the 4th century, with modern artistic expressions.
Chiuri, Jovanotti, and Williams have curated the exhibition to delve into the stories of various travelers, particularly in light of a recently uncovered collection of 1,200 newspapers amassed from different parts of the globe by diplomat and scholar Cesare Poma during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Focusing on six Victorian-era women who broke societal norms to journey worldwide independently, Chiuri collaborated with the Chanakya School of Craft in India to design tapestries that illustrate their adventures. “It was fascinating to discover that they felt compelled to modify their garments for comfort while traveling, particularly on bicycles,” Chiuri remarked at a press preview on Friday, noting that the first thing they removed was their corsets.
Jovanotti, a singer-songwriter known for his global explorations, has included a bicycle on display that he has used in travels through various countries including China, Iran, Pakistan, New Zealand, and much of Latin America. Additionally, he showcases a unique disco ball crafted into a globe, with silver mirrored sections representing oceans and gold ones symbolizing land masses. “I found it amusing to introduce a disco ball to the Vatican,” he quipped, adding a playful touch to the exhibition.
The title “En Route” is inspired by a publication from two French journalists, Lucien Leroy and Henri Papillaud, who chronicled their travels worldwide from 1895 to 1897, partially to support their expedition financially. This immersive exhibition will be open to visitors from February 15 through December 20.
