LEO ORTA ARTIST RESIDENCY PROJECT

11-20 June 2024 / 1-22 December 2024 / 28 February - 30 March Linguaglossa Etna Nord

SARP presents Leo Orta, artist in residence 2025. In June 2024, Orta began his exploration by investigating the geological formations of stones and the wildlife surrounding Mt. Etna. Then, he followed this initial journey around Etna Monte Nero with visits to other parts of Sicily, including Pantalica and Argimusco—two prehistoric settlements defined by unique forms of erosion. He was captivated by the interplay of light on the stones, the wild vegetation, and the contrasting absence of vegetation at higher altitudes, where the lava flows meet the light and the delicate creatures like butterflies. His sculptures, formed from stone, exhibit a subtle figurative quality, contrasting with his cellulose fiber like sculptures.  
Orta’s sculptural paintings reflect his observations of the surrounding landscape, integrating locally sourced ashes, pigments and stones as a direct reference to his sculpting process. The works show a deep connection to the geology of the region, linking the collective memory of art history with the raw elements of the land. These anthropomorphic forms, contrasted with masks and fragments of found objects, convey unknown expressions, characters, and emotions. The goat skeletons discovered in the fields further connect his work to the prehistoric past of locations like Pantalica, a necropolis of the Sican civilization, one of Sicily’s ancient cultures. This area, rich in stones and natural caverns, influenced his exploration of how the landscape absorbs its prehistoric sculpture history.
Orta’s sculptural process involves diverse materials and techniques, each contributing to his distinctive artistic language. His approach is evident in his material choices and methods. For instance, his use of lava stone in sculptures evokes the traditional sculpting techniques exemplified by artists like French sculptor Rodin and Italian artist Medardo Rosso, engaging deeply with the subject matter. The use of white limestone, in contrast, allows for a more delicate, nuanced approach. As Orta puts it, "When you work with limestone, it’s like sculpting with butter." He also incorporates clay into his process, enabling plastering techniques that expand the range of his material expressions.
In conclusion, Leo Orta's sculptures and paintings reflect the multidisciplinary artist’s effort to design a landscape underpinned by a deep connection to nature, history, and a commitment to expanding the boundaries of sculptural expression.


Project sponsored by Goethe Institut and Culture Moves Europe.

Photographs courtesy of Lorenzo Arrigoni.

Public engagements
Leo Orta, From Alula to Sicily, 24 March 2025 , Academy of Fine Arts, University of Catania, project organised by Professor Marcella Barone, University of Catania.