Tullio Crali, a visionary artist and prominent figure in the Futurist movement, was born on December 6, 1910, in Igalo, Dalmatia, now part of Montenegro. Throughout his life, Crali remained dedicated to the principles of Futurism, a movement that celebrated modernity, speed, technology, and the dynamism of the modern world. His work, particularly in aeropainting, continues to influence and inspire contemporary art. This article explores Tullio Crali’s life, his rise to fame, and the significant highlights of his career, providing a comprehensive overview of his impact on the world of art.
Early Life and Introduction to Futurism
Tullio Crali’s early years were marked by frequent relocations. His family moved from Igalo to Zara (now Zadar, Croatia), where Crali had his first significant encounter with aviation—an experience that would profoundly influence his artistic direction. The sight of a seaplane stationed near his home ignited his lifelong fascination with flight and technology.
In 1922, Crali’s family relocated again, this time to Gorizia, Italy. It was here that Crali began to express his artistic talents, initially as a self-taught painter. In 1925, at the age of 15, Crali discovered Futurism, a movement that resonated deeply with his interests and passions. The discovery came through reading “Il Mattino Illustrato” of Naples, which introduced him to the works of Futurist icons like Filippo Tommaso Marinetti, Umberto Boccioni, Luigi Russolo, and Ardengo Soffici.
Crali’s commitment to Futurism was immediate and unwavering. By 1926, he was actively exchanging his schoolbooks for Futurist literature and even corresponded with Marinetti, who welcomed him into the Futurist movement. This marked the beginning of Crali’s lifelong dedication to Futurism, a dedication that would shape his artistic career and legacy.
Artistic Development and Early Works
Tullio Crali’s early works were created under the pseudonym “Balzo Fiamma,” reflecting his experimental and avant-garde approach to art. His early paintings demonstrated his fascination with movement, speed, and the modern world—central themes in Futurist art. Crali’s artistic development was further influenced by his interactions with Guido Pocarini, the founder of the Movimento Futurista Giuliano. This connection led to Crali’s first public exhibition at the II Mostra Goriziana d’Arte, a significant milestone in his budding career.
The 1930s were a period of rapid growth and recognition for Crali. His work began to attract attention not only in Italy but also internationally. One of his most famous early works, “Le forze della curva” (The Forces of the Curve), exemplified his innovative approach to depicting motion and dynamism. During this period, Crali also began to forge connections with other Futurist groups, leading to invitations to exhibit at prestigious events such as the Mostra dei “7 Futuristi Padovani” and the Aeropittori Futuristi Italiani exhibitions in Paris and Brussels.
Crali’s works from the 1930s, including “Acrobazie aeree” (Aerial Acrobatics), “Pilota da caccia” (Fighter Pilot), and “Ali tricolori” (Tricolored Wings), are celebrated for their vibrant depiction of aerial themes, capturing the exhilaration and danger of flight. These works solidified Crali’s reputation as a leading figure in Aeropainting, a sub-genre of Futurism that focused on aviation and the aerial perspective.
Architectural and Design Ventures
In addition to his work as a painter, Tullio Crali was also deeply involved in architectural and design projects. During the 1930s, he moved to Rome, where he pursued a certification to teach artistic subjects. His architectural projects from this period are noted for their bold volumetric designs, which were both functional and aesthetically striking.
Crali’s work extended beyond traditional architecture into the realms of scenography and fashion. He was a pioneer in creating synthetic clothing and designing the “camicia anticravatta” (anti-tie shirt), which reflected his commitment to the Futurist ideals of innovation and breaking with tradition. His multifaceted approach to design underscored his belief that art should permeate all aspects of life, from buildings to the clothes people wear.
Mid-1930s to 1940s: Peak of Futurist Influence
The mid-1930s to 1940s represented the peak of Tullio Crali’s influence within the Futurist movement. In 1936, Crali showcased two significant works, “Lotta greco-romana” (Greco-Roman Wrestling) and “Lotta libera” (Freestyle Wrestling), at the II Mostra Nazionale d’Arte Sportiva. These works were later selected for the Mostra Internazionale Olimpionica d’Arte Sportiva in Berlin, further cementing his international reputation.
During this period, Crali was granted the opportunity to fly with Ala Littoria, Italy’s national airline at the time, thanks to the support of Umberto Klinger, the airline’s president. This experience inspired one of Crali’s most famous works, “Incuneandosi nell’abitato” (Diving into the Town), also known as “In tuffo sulla città.” The painting vividly captures the sensation of a pilot diving towards a city, with sharp angles and dynamic lines that convey the speed and intensity of the maneuver.
The late 1930s also saw Crali participating in the Biennale di Venezia, where he exhibited works such as “Motore seduttore di nuvole” (Engine Seducer of Clouds) and “Ammaraggio nel golfo” (Landing in the Gulf). These paintings, like much of Crali’s work, celebrated the technological advancements of the era and the new possibilities they offered for human experience.
The Impact of World War II and Personal Life
The outbreak of World War II had a profound impact on Tullio Crali, both personally and professionally. In 1940, Crali married Ada Savelli, who would remain his lifelong companion and muse. Despite the turmoil of the war, Crali continued to create art, remaining a central figure in the Futurist movement. His work during the war years included exhibitions at the Quadriennale d’Arte in Rome and the final Futurist gathering in Venice in 1944.
The war years were challenging for many artists, including Crali, as the political and social upheaval disrupted the art world. However, Crali’s commitment to Futurism never wavered. His works from this period reflect the tension and uncertainty of the time, yet they also convey a sense of resilience and determination to continue pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.
Post-War Period: Teaching and the Futurist Legacy
After the war, Tullio Crali and his family relocated to Turin, where he resumed his teaching career. In 1950, during a meeting at Marinetti’s house in Milan, Crali famously refused to declare the end of Futurism, choosing instead to continue promoting and developing the movement’s principles. This decision led to a resurgence of interest in Futurism, with Crali organizing events such as a Futurist poetry evening—the first of its kind since the end of the war.
Crali also began writing his “Diaries,” a collection of impressions, judgments, preparatory drawings, and travel memories spanning over thirty years. These diaries provide invaluable insights into Crali’s thoughts, creative process, and experiences as an artist during some of the most turbulent times in modern history.
In the 1950s, Crali moved abroad to teach at the Lycée Italien in Paris, where he continued to create art that captured the vibrancy of the city. His time in Paris was marked by a series of paintings and drawings that demonstrated his ongoing interest in the intersection of art and everyday life.
From 1960 to 1967, Crali took on the role of director at the Italian Art School in Cairo, Egypt, where he continued to influence and inspire the next generation of artists. His international experiences enriched his work, allowing him to incorporate diverse cultural perspectives into his art.
Later Years and Continued Contribution to Futurism
After returning to Italy in 1968, Tullio Crali remained an active participant in the Futurist movement. He took part in numerous exhibitions and Futurist events, where he continued to champion the ideas of Marinetti and other Futurist pioneers. In 1970, Crali’s first post-war exhibition of Aeropainting was held at the Galleria Blu in Milan, followed by another exhibition in Trieste in 1971.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Crali’s work continued to evolve, reflecting the changing times while remaining true to the core principles of Futurism. In 1975, he participated in the X Convegno Mitteleuropeo sulla pittura tra il 1890 e il 1930, held in Gorizia, which highlighted the significant contributions of Central European artists during that period.
In 1977, Crali established a studio in Milan, which also served as a Futurist Documentation Center, providing resources and inspiration for students and artists interested in the movement. His commitment to education and mentorship ensured that the principles of Futurism would continue to influence future generations.
Legacy and Final Years
In the final years of his life, Tullio Crali focused on a series of works dedicated to the Frecce Tricolori, the Italian Air Force’s aerobatic team. These paintings, completed between 1987 and 1993, capture the precision, speed, and beauty of aerial maneuvers, once again showcasing Crali’s lifelong passion for aviation.
In 1994, the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art of Trento and Rovereto (MART) dedicated a major retrospective to Crali, featuring his paintings, sculptures, posters, and polimaterici (multi-material works). Crali donated around forty works and extensive documentary material on Futurism to the museum, ensuring that his legacy would be preserved for future generations.
Tullio Crali passed away on August 5, 2000, in Milan, at the age of 89. His death marked the end of an era, but his contributions to Futurism and modern art continue to be celebrated and studied. Crali’s work remains a testament to the power of innovation, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of new artistic frontiers.
Conclusion
Tullio Crali was not just an artist; he was a visionary who embraced the future with open arms. His dedication to Futurism, particularly in the field of Aeropainting, left an indelible mark on the art world. Crali’s life and work remind us of the importance of embracing change, challenging conventions, and finding beauty in the modern world. As we look back on his contributions, it is clear that Tullio Crali’s legacy will continue to inspire artists and art enthusiasts for generations to come.
