On November 5, 2022, The Italian American Museum of Los Angeles (IAMLA) will inaugurate: A Real Boy: The Many Lives of Pinocchio, a new exhibition recounting the story of Pinocchio, the notorious wooden puppet whose character is one of the most appreciated in the field of children’s literature.
Apart from explaining the world of Pinocchio, the exhibition also explores the life, literary style and influences of Carlo Collodi, the master behind the puppet’s creation. In particular, the exhibition analyzes how Collodi’s persona is reflected in The Adventures of Pinocchio, which was published in 1883 and translated in 260 languages, and which marked Collodi’s ascent in the literary scene.
Pinocchio’s popularity is not relegated only to literature, in fact his role is best defined as a cultural icon of the postmodern era. The exhibition demonstrates this by showing how Pinocchio has been an influential figure in the music industry, from hip hop to jazz, as well as presenting the first published version of The Adventures of Pinocchio, some translated ones, art produced by Walt Disney, vintage toys, costumes of the show produced by Oscar-nominated designer Massimo Cantini Parrini, and more.
As Pier Francesco Bernacchi, president of the Fondazione Nazionale Carlo Collodi put it: “The exhibition is a wonderful opportunity to discover and rediscover Pinocchio’s humanity.”
As well being able to discover Pinocchio’s figure through the exhibition, the attendees will be able to take part in free events such as a theater marionette show, a lecture with Chapman University professor Federico Pacchioni on the imagery of puppets in the history of Italian theater, a puppet making workshop with artist Ylenia Milo (for kids) and other entertaining activities.
The Italian American Museum of Los Angeles presents the exhibition in collaboration with California Arts Council; Fondazione Collodi; Walt Disney Archives; University of California Los Angeles; Costumi Tirelli S.p.a.; Italian Cultural Institute Los Angeles as well as other local organizations.
For more information visit the website of IAMLA.
