Salvatore Garau, the avant-garde Italian artist, has made headlines for a reason that has stirred the art world: the sale of invisible works. With amazement and controversy, Garau managed to sell the immaterial sculpture titled “Io Sono” for the sum of 15,000 euros, igniting a debate on what can truly be considered art. This is not his first success: he previously sold another invisible work for a staggering 27,120 euros, titled “Davanti a Te.”
“My works are a content of thought, pure poetry”
Insults and criticism have not been lacking for Garau’s proposals, which some deem too avant-garde, as the artist of non-existent works. You can buy them, you can imagine them, but you can’t see them. These questions, however, have not stopped buyers who see something original and deeply connected to their lives in these invisible works. Garau is a staunch supporter of his creations, and he believes the prices achieved are merely a fraction of their true worth, which he thinks could be much higher compared to works that reach millions.
The artist feels like David against Goliath, fighting against an audience that mostly doesn’t seem to understand his vision. The immaterial matter, as he calls it, has the power to evoke the fears that invade our existence. For Garau, it is the absence that disturbs the audience and drives them to criticize his works, as the absence emphasizes the problems we wish to forget. While his thoughts are sensible and reasoned, they appear surreal to the public since we are talking about air.
The work “Io Sono” at 15,000 Euros
With a certificate of authenticity and instructions for optimal positioning, the buyer secured the non-existent work for 15,000 euros. The initial estimate hovered around 6,000-9,000 euros, but several interested parties showed up at the auction. The instructions dictate that the work must be displayed in a private space of about 1.5 x 1.5 meters, free from obstacles (but obstacles to what?). This request has further fueled the debate on the nature of art and its presentation.
The Work “Davanti a Te” at 27,120 Euros
As per custom, Salvatore Garau doesn’t sell fluff but certified works of art. The buyer acquired “Davanti a Te,” which, according to the instructions, requires a dedicated space of about 200 x 200 cm. This invisible sculpture was sold during the 4-U news auction, a format of Art-Rite, at the auction house in Milan. The amount reached not only surprised many but also confirmed the growing curiosity and interest in innovative and conceptual forms of art.
warranty certificate of “Davanti a te”
