What is cracking art?

Cracking art is an artistic movement that began in the mid-1990s in Italy. It involves creating sculptures using brightly colored plastic materials, such as polyethylene, that are typically discarded after use. The artists use these materials to create animal and human figures, as well as other shapes, and aim to encourage viewers to think about the impact of consumer culture and waste on the environment.

Cracking art is characterized by its bright colors, simple shapes, and playful aesthetic. It is often created in large-scale installations that combine multiple sculptures to create a immersive experience for viewers.

The founders of the movement, Renzo Nucara and Alberto Rigoni, chose the name "cracking art" because it refers to the sound that plastic makes when it is bent and molded. They believe that the use of plastic is key to the movement's message, as plastic is a material that is both ubiquitous and highly damaging to the environment.

Cracking art has gained international recognition and has been exhibited in galleries and public spaces around the world, including in Italy, France, Switzerland, China, and the United States. The movement has also been embraced by fashion and luxury brands, with cracking art sculptures being featured in advertising campaigns for companies such as Louis Vuitton and Swarovski.