Tony Cassanelli

Tony was born in Bari on the morning of December 6, 1979. From a young age, he showed a deep interest in drawing and nature, which became his primary passion. Despite pursuing scientific studies during his early education, Tony devoted his free time to exploring human anatomy and the techniques of the great masters of the past. At the age of 15, he began studying privately at the studio of the sculptor Franco Scaringi in Trani, where he spent three formative years.

After completing his scientific studies and apprenticeship with Scaringi, Tony moved to Carrara in Tuscany to further his artistic education. He enrolled at the Academy of Fine Arts in Carrara, where he graduated after four years of intensive study. The unique environment of Carrara, renowned for its marble, presented Tony with the opportunity to master traditional marble sculpting techniques, particularly those performed manually and “by eye”, without relying on modern measuring tools. His commitment to a pure, unfiltered approach to sculpture was also the subject of his thesis.

Drawing has always been Tony’s preferred medium for analysis and study as a sculptor, a skill and philosophy he further developed under the mentorship of Gigi Guadagnucci, a significant figure in his life whom Tony considers almost a second father. Their eight-year friendship profoundly influenced Tony’s artistic approach.

Following his studies, Tony embarked on extensive travels, driven by his interest in understanding the diverse aspects of human nature and the cultural influences that shape it. His journeys took him to South America, including Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, and Uruguay, as well as to cities such as Istanbul, Berlin, Dublin, Paris, New York, and ultimately Lisbon, where he decided to establish his new studio.

Tony’s work was featured in numerous solo and group exhibitions and has garnered several awards. His sculptures and paintings are part of private collections in Italy, Switzerland, Norway, the United States, and Portugal. Tony’s artistic vision extends beyond traditional gallery spaces; he aims to bring the art of sculpture and painting into a more direct and meaningful dialogue with the public. This desire has led him to collaborate with musicians and video artists in performances where the act of creation becomes a live artistic expression. Tony has also collaborated with actors and directors, creating sets for productions at the National Theater in Lisbon, and has established connections within the dance world.

Tony remains committed to exploring medium format and monumental sculpture, continually seeking to connect with audiences through the power of his artistic expression.