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"It's always been a radical gesture, this, to always go beyond the boundaries in which you place yourself, or others place you because life does not contemplate boundaries. The boundary is just a stage"

Riccardo Dalisi, who passed away two years ago at the age of 91, was a visionary artist and architect whose work transcended the conventional boundaries of design. His career, which spanned over five decades, established him as a pivotal figure in Italian art and architecture. Recently, his contributions were commemorated through an exhibition, a book, and the dedication of a university classroom in his honor. Having had the pleasure of meeting and working with him as an architecture student and early-stage professional in Naples, I am inspired to remember his unique and fascinating figure through this article.

Born in Potenza, Dalisi spent most of his life in Naples, a city that profoundly influenced his work and philosophy. After earning his architecture degree from Federico II University in 1957, he joined the studio of Francesco Della Sala. It was in this studio that he met Massimo Pica Ciamarra in 1963, and together, along with Michele Capobianco, they collaborated on the construction of the Palazzo della Nuova Borsa Merci. This period marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to blending architectural innovation with the rich cultural heritage of Naples. He developed a deep appreciation for traditional craftsmanship, folk art, and the city’s vibrant street life, which became integral to his artistic style.

Dalisi's work was characterized by a unique blend of creativity, innovation, and a strong sense of social responsibility. His projects spanned various mediums, including sculpture, furniture design, and architectural works, all infused with a playful yet humanistic touch. He believed in the transformative power of design, not just as a functional solution to problems but as a medium for social change. Rooted in the socio-cultural landscape of Naples, his work consistently addressed pressing social issues, proving that design could be a force for good.

Sculpture was central to Dalisi's artistic practice. His sculptures were more than just art pieces; they were functional objects, often created from recycled materials. This approach demonstrated his concern for environmental issues and explored the potential of everyday objects to be transformed into something greater. These works were not confined to galleries; instead, they often found their place in public spaces where they could directly engage with communities.

One of the most distinctive aspects of Dalisi's work was his deep engagement with disadvantaged communities. He believed that design and art should be accessible to all and frequently collaborated with marginalized groups to create works that reflected their experiences and needs. In the 1970s, he worked with children from deprived areas of Naples, organizing workshops where they could develop toys and art from recycled materials. Through these projects, he gave young people an artistic outlet and a way to reimagine their futures. His approach was always rooted in the idea that art and design could and should play a role in addressing the problems of the time, from environmental sustainability to social justice.

In 1973, Dalisi became a crucial figure in the Global Tools movement, a counter-school of architecture and design that challenged the conventions of the time. Collaborating with prominent designers such as Ettore Sottsass and Alessandro Mendini, Dalisi pushed the boundaries of design, emphasizing ethical practices, sustainability, and the use of natural materials. This movement often intersected with the principles of Arte Povera. The works created during this period are now exhibited in prestigious institutions, including the Centre Pompidou in Paris and the Madre Museum in Naples. Despite numerous opportunities to leave Naples for more prominent stages, Dalisi chose to stay and "think small." This decision became a defining source of strength, setting him apart as a unique figure in the artistic world.

Dalisi's innovative spirit also led him to collaborate with local artisans in Naples, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design principles. This collaboration was most famously exemplified in his work on the Neapolitan coffee pot, symbolizing his design philosophy as a means to preserve cultural heritage while embracing innovation. His work with local artisans in the Spanish Quarter of Naples, where he transformed materials like tin and copper into fantastical forms, further illustrates his commitment to celebrating and elevating traditional artisanal practices.

Riccardo Dalisi's contributions to design and architecture have been recognized globally, earning him numerous awards, including the prestigious Compasso d'Oro for Lifetime Achievement in 2014. The jury’s motivation for awarding him stated: "For an architect, designer, artist, at the forefront of social issues, who has dedicated his activity also in favor of those who live in situations of deep discomfort.” This recognition solidified Dalisi’s legacy as a pioneer who used design to create beautiful objects, enhance the human experience, and foster community.

Dalisi’s career is a testament to the power of art and design to transcend mere aesthetics and engage with the world on a deeper level. His work reminds us that design is not just about creating objects of beauty but about improving lives and building communities. His philosophy was one of constant questioning and a refusal to be confined by the traditional boundaries of his discipline. This is perhaps best captured in his own words: "I feel like someone who walks backward. One with his face forward but walking in the opposite direction." These words encapsulate Dalisi’s approach to life and work: always looking forward, yet fully aware of the past, and unafraid to challenge the status quo.

In light of the global climate crisis, celebrating an artist like Dalisi - whose creative path was always oriented toward environmental and social sustainability - is more crucial than ever. His “ultra-poor design” celebrated the reuse of waste and the ennoblement of materials that would otherwise have ended up in landfills. Through his commitment to addressing social issues through design, the artist reminded us that design can be more than just a functional solution—it can be a force for positive change.

Recognizing his invaluable contributions, the Faculty of Architecture at Federico II University in Naples dedicated a classroom to Dalisi, ensuring his legacy will inspire future architects and designers.

The photos accompanying this article were taken by the author in the early 2000s at the artist's studio in Naples.