On October 4 at 3 pm, as part of the celebrations for the Feast of Saint Francis, Patron of Italy, The Golden Roots, a work of art developed by Artist Mariagrazia Pontorno in collaboration with the Fondazione Mondo Digitale for the “Arts on Walks” Call by the Regione Lazio, will be inaugurated in Rivodutri (Rieti).
This is one of seven contemporary art projects selected by the Regione Lazio to promote spiritual footpaths. The sculpture by Maria Grazia Pontorno will be positioned along the route that leads to the Beech Tree of Rivodutri, in the Province of Rieti, which has recently been included in the register of monumental trees and historical pilgrimage sites. Legend narrates that the beech tree was genetically modified to protect Saint Francis during a storm. The saint left a footprint in a nearby rock that is still venerated today. Mariagrazia Pontorno will place three bronze sculptures on this trail. The sculptures, which were developed with local students, are conceived as symbolic prostheses of the sacred tree’s roots and will also serve as resting points for pilgrims on the trail.
The inauguration will also include a performance on the theme of “roots” by students of the Rivodutri Primary School.
Participants include the Mayor of Rivodutri, Michele Paniconi, Regione Lazio Councillor Fabio Refrigeri, the Director General of the Fondazione Mondo Digitale, Mirta Michilli, and the artist, Maria Grazia Pontorno.
