The Path to Paradise – Pneuma Art Foundation x Galleria Frilli

Call for Artists: "Porta Paradisi" Exhibition

 

An Invitation to Reimagine Ghiberti's Masterpiece

Pneuma Art Foundation is thrilled to announce The Path to Paradise our upcoming exhibition in collaboration with Galleria Frilli. Galleria Frilli will be our partners for this exhibition; supplying it with their support and their replicas of the Gates of Paradise panels, Ghiberti’s east doors of the Baptistry in Florence.

The exhibition will be based around the idea of finding light and shadow. The doors depict these ancient eternal stories of facing one’s inner demons and living up to one’s own hopes and expectations. The doors to paradise, regardless of your spiritual or philosophical background, are always reached via finding the balance of light and shadow within oneself. 

Frilli will exhibit their replicas of the Gates of Paradise, the east doors of the Florence Baptistry with Ghiberti’s 10 bronze panels surrounding it. We invite Pneuma artist members to submit proposals for works inspired by the ten panels of Lorenzo Ghiberti's iconic Baptistry Doors, also known as the "Gates of Paradise." This is a unique opportunity to engage with a masterpiece of Renaissance art and contribute to a contemporary dialogue that bridges history and takes one back through time, tying artists from today directly to the Renaissance itself.

 

The exhibition will take place in the Fall of 2025 (October-November) at a location to be determined in Florence.

  

About the Exhibition

Galleria Frilli will be providing their esteemed copy of Ghiberti's Baptistry Doors as the centerpiece of the exhibition. The 10 reliefs of Ghiberti will be displayed throughout the exhibition space. Artists are called to create original works that draw inspiration from one or more of the ten panels, interpreting the themes, narratives, and artistry through their own creative lenses. These pieces will be exhibited next to the Ghiberti relief that they take inspiration from.

*This floor plan is just an example, not a final layout.

 

The theme and concept of the exhibition: the doors themselves carry the stories of the Old Testament, but we should not seek to copy that, instead what we need is to feature work inspired by these greater themes (Adam and Eve: Man and Woman, Cain and Abel: Jealousy, David and Goliath: courage in the face of great opposition etc). 

Panel Distribution Goal: To honor each of Ghiberti's ten panels, we will assign selected artists evenly among them. This ensures a comprehensive exploration of the entire work. 2 pieces will be created for each panel, for a total of 20 artists selected to participate.

It is important for artists to determine which panels they prefer and in what priority.

 

Submission Guidelines

Eligibility

  • The call is open to all active Pneuma artist members. Join here.

  • Members who submit to this call must not be full-time students in an academy or other school at the time of the exhibition (the member can be a student at the time of proposal and submission, as long as the member will graduate or be working primarily independently prior to October 2025).

  • Artists working in traditional mediums encouraged, but all mediums welcome (except photography and collage)

  • Proposed pieces can be secular or religious, provided they respect the historical and cultural heritage associated with Ghiberti’s originals.

  • Proposed pieces should be inspired by the panels, but not direct copies of them.

  • This exhibition is highly allegorical, as Ghiberti’s panels themselves are. Successful proposed pieces will either tell a story drawn from some aspects of one of the panels, or reinterpret in a contemporary way the meaning of the panel or of an aspect of the panels. Pieces should be accessible to the audience and not overly abstract in content.

 

How to Apply –

Anyone who wishes to apply to be featured in this exhibit must be a Pneuma Artist Member. If you are a member, sign in to your account (www.thepneuma.org/membership) and navigate to the tab, “Open Calls”. The application will be available to you there.

 

Below you will find all of the requirements to submit for the call. Please submit the following materials by January 13, 2025 through Pneuma’s member portal:

 

Artist Information

    • Full Name

    • Email Address

    • Phone Number

Artwork Proposal

Panel Preference Ranking:

  • First Choice Panel: Indicate your first-choice panel from Ghiberti's ten panels.

  • Second Choice Panel: Indicate your second-choice panel.

  • Third Choice Panel: Indicate your third-choice panel.

Willingness to Adapt: Let us know if you are open to interpreting a different panel if needed.

Note: A list and brief description of the ten panels are attached in the open call page.

    • Statement of Intent (up to 500 words):

  • For each of your top 3 panel choices, provide a brief concept of how you would interpret that panel.

  • Focus more extensively on your first-choice panel.

    • Artistic Approach:

  • Outline the medium, techniques, and materials you plan to use.

  • Explain how your artistic style connects with the themes of your chosen panels.

  • Keep in mind that you will have from January to October, 2025 to complete the piece.

    • Visual Aids:

  • Include sketches, mock-ups, or preliminary designs of your proposed work for your first-choice panel (in JPEG or PDF format).

  • This is optional but highly recommended

Portfolio

    • Up to 5 high-resolution images of previous works relevant to your proposal.

    • Include titles, mediums, dimensions, and brief descriptions for each piece.

Artist Statement

    • Reflect on your overall artistic practice and where you draw your inspiration

Agreement and Rights

    • Ownership, Sales, and Commission Structure:

  • All artists will own their work. As such, artists are responsible to fund the creation of their own work. Pneuma and Frilli will not fund the creation of the works.

  • Acknowledge that all artworks submitted for the exhibition will be available for sale exclusively through Pneuma and Galleria Frilli unless otherwise agreed upon, for a period of one year after the close of the exhibition.

  • All pieces MUST be available for sale at the start of the exhibition and cannot be pre-sold.

  • Pneuma and Galleria Frilli will retain a commission of 40% on all sales made during or because of the exhibition, and for 1 year after the conclusion of the exhibition. (60% to the artist, 40% to the exhibit sponsors).

    • Pricing:

  • Include a proposed retail price of your artwork, factoring in the commission rate.

  • A final price will be established with the help of the curators if your proposal is selected. Any discounts offered by the artist to a prospective buyer will be made after consultation with Pneuma and Galleria Frilli.

    • Payment Terms:

  • Understand that payment for sold artworks will be processed and disbursed to the artist within 30 days of receipt of payment from the buyer.

    • Reproduction Rights:

  • Grant Pneuma and Galleria Frilli the non-exclusive right to photograph and reproduce images of your submitted artwork for promotional, educational, and archival purposes related to the exhibition.

    • Insurance and Liability:

  • Agree that while every reasonable precaution will be taken, Pneuma and Galleria Frilli are not responsible for loss or damage to artworks. Artists are encouraged to carry their own insurance if desired.

    • Artwork Availability and deadlines:

  • Confirm that the artwork will be available for the entire duration of the exhibition and that you will meet all deadlines for delivery and installation. The work will be available for Pneuma and Galleria Frilli to sell for a year after the close of the exhibit.

    • Originality:

  • Ensure that the submitted work is original and does not infringe upon any copyright laws.

    • Professional Conduct:

  • Artists are expected to maintain respectful and professional conduct throughout the exhibition process, including during preparation, communication, and public events. Any actions or language deemed disrespectful, discriminatory, or detrimental to the reputation of Pneuma Art Foundation or Galleria Frilli may result in immediate removal from the exhibition and exclusion from future opportunities.

 

Technical Requirements

    • Dimensions:

  • No smaller than 80cm or larger than 250cm on the longest side. If your proposed piece is smaller or larger, tell us why this is important for the piece in your submission.

    • Installation Needs:

  • Note any special equipment or installation considerations.

    • Safety Considerations:

  • Outline any safety measures if your work includes interactive or moving elements.

 

  1. Submission Checklist

    • A completed application form with all required materials through Pneuma Artist member portal

    • All documents formatted as specified.

    • Confirmation of understanding and agreement to the terms outlined.

 

Selection Process

A selection committee of six members, evenly split between curators and leaders from Pneuma and Galleria Frilli, will review all submissions. Approximately 20 artists will be selected based on the following criteria:

●      Relevance and Originality:

  • How well the proposal engages with the themes of Ghiberti's panels in a unique, contemporary, and compelling way.

●      Artistic Quality and Professionalism:

  • Demonstrated skill, creativity, and a cohesive artistic vision.

  • Compositional thought and storytelling ability.

●      Feasibility:

  • Practicality of the project concerning space, time constraints, and installation requirements.

●      Panel Distribution:

  • To achieve an even representation, we will assign artists to panels based on their preferences and the overall needs of the exhibition.

●   Panel Assignment:

  • While we will consider your panel preferences, we may assign you to your second or third choice to ensure even distribution.

  • If none of your preferred panels are available, and you have indicated a willingness to adapt, we may offer you an alternative panel if accepted to the exhibit.

●      Alignment with Exhibition Objectives:

  • Consistency with the overarching goals and themes of "Porta Paradisi”

  • Alignment with Pneuma’s mission and vision (see www.thepneuma.org)

 

All applicants will be notified of the selection results no later than January 31, 2025.

Key Dates and Mandatory Check Ins (if accepted):

●      Submission Deadline: January 13, 2025

●      Notification of Acceptance: January 31, 2025

●      1st Artist Check In: February 28, 2025

●      2nd Artist Check In: May 30, 2025

●      3rd Artist Check In: July 25, 2025

●      4th Artist Check In: September 1, 2025

●      Artwork Delivery Date: October 1, 2025

●      Exhibition Opening: October 2025

●      Exhibition Closing: November 2025

Exhibition Details

●      Venue: To be announced shortly

●      Artwork Sales: Artworks will be prominently displayed and available for sale by Pneuma and Galleria Frilli throughout the exhibition and for 1 year post exhibition.

●      Commission Rate: Pneuma and Frilli will retain 40% of the sale price of each artwork sold. 60% of the sale will go to the artist. The commission rates will be based on the final selling price net of discount, net of all taxes and net of all withholdings due within the legal terms provided for by current Italian legislation.

●      Promotion: The exhibition will be promoted through Pneuma's and Galleria Frilli's extensive networks, social media platforms, press releases, and marketing materials, offering significant exposure for participating artists. Accepted artists will also be expected to promote the exhibition through their networks and social media. Artists selected for this exhibit will also be featured on social media platforms promoting the event and the artist.

●      Installation: Artists are responsible for delivering their work ready for installation, including frame, if applicable. Specific installation guidelines will be provided upon acceptance.

●      Insurance: While the works will be handled with utmost care and professionalism, insurance of art work will not be provided by Galleria Frilli and Pneuma. As the owner of the piece, if an artist would like insurance, they may acquire it individually.

●      Events: We will sponsor and host multiple community events, gala dinners, Vernissage, Finissage, merchandise, and promotional events throughout the length of the exhibit.

Contact Information

For questions or additional information, please contact:

●      Luna Gordon, Head Curator Email: exhibitions@thepneuma.org

Additional Information

●      Artist Support:

  • Selected artists may receive support for shipping and installation, as needed and upon request. Details will be provided upon acceptance.

  • Artists will not be compensated for materials or time to produce the accepted piece. Artists maintain ownership of the piece until sold. Pneuma and Frilli have exclusive rights to sell the piece on the artists’ behalf during the exhibit and for 1 year after the end of the exhibition and collect the commission.

●      Opening Reception:

  • An opening reception will be held at the beginning of the exhibit, and artists are required to attend unless otherwise agreed upon.

●      Press Opportunities:

  • There may be opportunities for interviews and features in promotional materials. Participation is optional but encouraged.

  • Artists selected for this exhibit will also be featured on Pneuma’s social media platforms promoting the event and the artist.

Ghiberti's Ten Panels Overview

To assist in your panel selection, here is a brief overview of the ten panels:

  1. Panel 1: Adam and Eve (Top Left): Depicts the creation of Adam, the creation of Eve, and their expulsion from Eden.

  2. Panel 2: Cain and Abel (Top Right): Shows the story of Cain and Abel, including Cain’s murder of Abel and his confrontation with God.

  3. Panel 3: Noah and the Ark (Second Left): Illustrates Noah building the Ark, the flood, and giving thanks to God after the waters recede.

  4. Panel 4: Abraham and Isaac (Second Right): Features Abraham preparing to sacrifice Isaac, with the angel intervening to stop him.

  5. Panel 5: Jacob and Esau (Middle Left): Highlights the story of Jacob deceiving Isaac for Esau’s blessing and their later reconciliation.

  6. Panel 6: Joseph and His Brothers (Middle Right): Tells the story of Joseph’s rise from betrayal and enslavement to reconciliation with his brothers.

  7. Panel 7: Moses Receiving the Ten Commandments (Fourth Left): Portrays Moses receiving the Ten Commandments and leading the Israelites.

  8. Panel 8: Joshua and the Battle of Jericho (Fourth Right): Shows Joshua leading the Israelites to victory at Jericho, including the collapse of its walls.

  9. Panel 9: David and Goliath (Bottom Left): Depicts young David defeating the giant Goliath with a sling.

  10. Panel 10: Solomon and the Queen of Sheba (Bottom Right): Illustrates the meeting between Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, symbolizing wisdom and respect.

Please refer to attached images or additional resources for more detailed information on each panel. (https://arnolfo.duomo.firenze.it/operedarte/1320/viewer)

Join Us in Creating a Contemporary "Gate of Paradise"

This exhibition is more than a display of art; it's a collaborative journey that connects the past with the present. We encourage you to delve into the rich narratives of Ghiberti's panels and contribute your voice to this landmark event.

We look forward to receiving your inspired proposals!

Note: Please ensure all submissions adhere to the guidelines. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Disclaimer: By submitting an application, you agree to all terms and conditions outlined in this call for artists.

Submission Agreement Summary

By applying to the The Path to Paradise exhibition, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

●      Panel Assignment:

  • You understand that panel assignments aim for an even distribution among the ten panels.

  • Your preferred panels will be considered, but final assignments may differ.

●      Sales and Commission:

  • The artist owns the piece.

  • Pneuma and Frilli will handle all sales transactions and retain a commission of 40% The remaining 60% will be remitted to the artist, net of discount, net of all taxes and net of all withholdings due within the legal terms provided for by current Italian legislation.

  • Pneuma and Frilli have exclusive rights to sell the piece for a year after the conclusion of the exhibition. After the one-year period, all rights return to the artist.

●      Pricing Strategy:

  • Prices will be set with the help of the curators. 22% VAT will be added if a sale occurs within the EU.

  • Prices cannot be altered after submission unless mutually agreed upon in writing.

●      Payment Processing:

  • Artists will receive full payment for sold works 30 days after receipt of payment from the buyer. The sale is performed by Pneuma/Frilli and the artist will invoice their 60% commission to Pneuma/Frilli, net of the final selling price, net of all taxes and net of all withholdings due within the legal terms provided for by current Italian legislation. Pneuma/Frilli are available to help with this process.

●      Reproduction Rights:

  • You grant permission for your artwork to be photographed and used in promotional materials related to the exhibition.

●      Liability Waiver:

  • Pneuma and Galleria Frilli are not liable for any damage or loss of artwork.

●      Exclusivity:

  • The artwork submitted is exclusive to this exhibition for its duration and is not to be displayed or sold elsewhere during or before this period.

●      Compliance:

  • You agree to comply with all logistical arrangements, including delivery, installation, and pick-up schedules.

  • Failure to adhere to this agreement will result in exclusion from this exhibition and possible future Pneuma Member Exhibitions.

NON-DISPLAY AGREEMENT

This Non-Display Agreement ("Agreement") is entered by and between the Pneuma Art Foundation "Pneuma" and Frilli Gallery “Frilli”, and the submitting "Artist" as indicated on the submission form.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this Agreement is to ensure that the artworks created for the "Porta Paradisi" exhibit ("Exhibit") remain exclusive and are not displayed or disclosed publicly prior to the Exhibit or without Pneuma or Frilli’s express written approval.

1.     Scope of Work
The Artist agrees that all artworks ("Works") created for the Exhibit, including but not limited to sketches, drafts, completed pieces, and associated materials, will not be publicly displayed, exhibited, or shared in full or in part without the prior written consent of Pneuma or Frilli.

2.     Prohibition on Public Display
The Artist agrees not to:

  • Display, exhibit, or sell the Works in any physical or digital venue, including but not limited to galleries, museums, private collections, social media, websites, or online marketplaces, prior to the opening of the Exhibit.

  • Share images or details of the full Works publicly or privately unless explicitly authorized by Pneuma and Frilli in writing.

3.     Exceptions
The following activities are permitted, provided they are approved in writing by Pneuma or Frilli:

  • Sharing partial, cropped, or detail images of the Works for promotional purposes.

  • Displaying Works in private, non-public meetings for funding or logistical discussions.

4.     Approval Process
Any request to display, share, or exhibit the Works prior to the Exhibit must be submitted in writing to Pneuma or Frilli for approval. Pneuma will provide a response within seven (7) business days.

5.     Confidentiality
The Artist agrees to maintain confidentiality regarding any proprietary information about the Exhibit shared by Pneuma, including but not limited to plans, themes, designs, and other artists' contributions.

6.     Duration
This Agreement shall remain in effect until the conclusion of the Exhibit or until Pneuma provides written confirmation that the restriction is lifted, whichever occurs later.

7.     Ownership and Intellectual Property
The Artist retains all intellectual property rights to their Works. This Agreement does not transfer ownership but restricts public display as outlined herein.

8.     Breach and Remedies
Failure to adhere to this agreement will result in exclusion from this exhibition and possible future Pneuma Member Exhibitions.

 

We appreciate your interest and effort in applying to "Porta Paradisi”. Together, we can create an exhibition that resonates with audiences and honors the legacy of Ghiberti's masterwork.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What if my preferred panels are assigned to others?

A: We encourage you to indicate your willingness to adapt to another panel. The selection committee will assign panels based on artists' preferences and the need for even distribution.

Q: Can I submit multiple proposals for different panels?

A: You may include concepts for up to three panels in your application. However, only one piece per artist will be selected and assigned for the exhibition.

Q: Will I have the opportunity to discuss my panel assignment if selected?

A: Yes, upon acceptance, we will confirm your panel assignment and are open to dialogue to ensure the best fit for both the artist and the exhibition. We will also host many talks and workshops to help artists prepare their composition.

Q: What kinds of pieces will most likely be successful?

A: All mediums are welcome and encouraged! We are looking for narrative, storytelling, and allegory in art, inspired by one of Ghiberti’s panels. Portraiture alone will likely not be accepted. Applicants are encouraged to submit pieces from their portfolios that show an ability to create these kinds of pieces. A brief sketch of the proposed piece can change after acceptance, but will be a great aid to the selection committee.

Q: Do I need to be a member of Pneuma to apply?

A: Yes, the call is open only to active Pneuma artist members. Join here to enjoy all the benefits the foundation has to offer.

Q: Who will be selecting the artists for the exhibition?

A: The selection committee, composed of six members evenly split between curators and leaders from Pneuma and Galleria Frilli, will review all submissions (3 representatives from Frilli and 3 representatives from Pneuma).