Stefano Arienti: Biblioteca

In our commissioned role for the 2011 Olnick Spanu Art Program, we provided comprehensive consultancy services and hands-on assistance during the installation of the remarkable artwork titled “Biblioteca,” crafted by the esteemed Italian artist Stefano Arienti. This engaging piece is a testament to the collaborative synergy between the artist and the collectors, Nancy Olnick and Giorgio Spanu.

“Biblioteca,” translating to Library in Italian, is a composition of 229 terracotta book bricks meticulously arranged in three beds and two piles. Our involvement in the project extended beyond the conceptualization of the exhibition, encompassing the crucial phase of installation where each element was carefully positioned to achieve the desired visual impact.

The uniqueness of the artwork lies in its individuality—each book brick bears inscriptions on the surface, featuring covers sourced from the personal libraries of both Nancy and Giorgio, as well as Stefano Arienti. Notably, Nancy and Giorgio contributed a collection of 113 titles, while Stefano added 117 titles, resulting in a harmonious blend of literary and artistic influences within the piece.

Throughout the installation process, we worked closely with the artist and collectors to ensure the seamless integration of each terracotta book brick, preserving the integrity of the artwork’s concept. It’s important to mention that, despite the challenges encountered during fabrication, with one book brick being inadvertently destroyed, the final composition stands as a testament to the resilience of the collaborative vision and the dedication invested in bringing “Biblioteca” to life.

Artist: Stefano Arienti Project management: Miguel Quismondo Location: Garrison, NY, D.C. Completion Date: 2011 Photography: Miguel Quismondo, Jon Lutz