Inspired by his Italian roots, Agostino Perrone presents a collection of photographs that portray the everyday life and glamorous lifestyle of his country. In Mambo Italiano, the master mixologist pays tribute to Federico Fellini's iconic work La Dolce Vita while sharing his own story. His lens captures unnoticed moments, inviting the audience to appreciate and relive life through this imagery, deeply connected to our memories and sensations.
The first aspect that stands out in Perrone's works is the profound bond with Italian culture, reflecting its glamorous and sophisticated past. Depicting this era awakens a sense of nostalgia and affection for tradition, while the perspective of hospitality enhances the beauty and warmth of these places. The Mediterranean summer’s heat is also evocative, triggering emotional connections. At the same time, the water elongates that short instant, encouraging you to dive into this energetic and joyful recollection. Framed, the culture and luxury of 1960s Italy seem frozen in time, and the black-and-white images leave us questioning when the photos were actually taken, transporting us to the past.
Another captivating element of Perrone's work is the way he infuses his mixology expertise into his photography. His dedication and hospitality are reflected through his camera in intimate and welcoming images. The bartender is both a reader and listener of each customer’s stories, becoming a confidant of their tastes and secrets. He has a unique talent for absorbing and immortalizing these narratives. In the bar, he creates fleeting moments; both the cocktails and the conversations are bound to come to an end as the evening winds down. But through photography, Perrone captures these experiences, preserving them in memory just like every sip of his drinks. Taste, sight, and all the senses converge in the creation of a lasting impression.
The cinematic quality of the photographs is striking, not only recalling the stunning visuals of La Dolce Vita but also immersing the viewer into the scenes. In contrast to Hollywood blockbusters, European cinema of the 1960s depicts everyday life, much like Perrone does. Fellini's iconic settings emphasize the glamour, sensuality, and culture. The human figures in motion provoke thoughts about what came before and what is yet to unfold. All of this invites the viewer to unravel the images as if they were stories, forging connections with the characters and experiencing the photographs beyond what’s seen.
In Mambo Italiano, we are offered a glimpse into Ago Perrone's life, as he encourages us to savor the images and share in the narratives they evoke. The exhibition showcases his inspirations and passions. His work at the bar and behind the camera blend into one. His true gift is making us recall not only what we’ve experienced, but everything we potentially are yet to live. Moments captured in an instant, yet destined to remain forever in memory.
Galerie Sara Lily Perez Team
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