Hidden Impact
Excerpts from “Hidden Impact: Street art, graffiti and iconography in Naples”
"Naples, with over 2,500 years of history, is a city whose codes are maybe difficult for visitors to decipher. Its lively, sometimes narrow streets reveal not only an incredibly rich cultural past but also a vibrant present teeming with street art, graffiti, and symbols. This book project delves into the significance of these artistic expressions in Naples and aims to explore at least a portion of their codes and facets.
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The historic center of Naples, maybe the heart of the city, is a captivating place that brings together history, culture, and street art. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, spanning approximately 170 hectares, is home to a variety of monuments, palaces, churches, and narrow streets that tell the tale of a rich past.
With a history that dates back more than 2,500 years, the old town tells of tumultuous times, shaped by various civilizations and cultures. Here, you can find remnants of Greek and Roman, as well as Arab *) and Norman, periods.
Today, the old town of Naples is not only a lively history museum but also a vibrant center for contemporary art and culture. In addition to the historical landmarks and monuments, such as the city’s cathedral with the miracles of San Gennaro’s blood, the old town is filled with a dynamic street art and graffiti scene. The streets are adorned with intricate paintings, and murals, paste-ups, and tags displaying a wide range of styles.
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Diego Maradona (1960–2020), born in Lanús, Argentina, was one of the greatest football players of all time. His talent, extraordinary technique, and determination made him a sports icon. But his story is not just that of a football player; it’s the story of a man revered by millions, especially in Naples, where he became immortal.
Photos from the book
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It is said that Maradona struggled with his role. He came from a poor background himself and now found himself wealthy, searching for his place in life. He spent money lavishly and flaunted his wealth. With all his contradictions, he fit perfectly to the city.
Every scandal story in the major sports magazines – about the drugs, the women, the tax and his closeness to the Camorra – welded Napoli's fans even closer together.
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The veneration of Maradona reached its peak after his death on November 25, 2020. In Naples, his passing was mourned like that of a saint. The club renamed its stadium “Stadio Diego Armando Maradona,” and thousands gathered to pay their final respects.
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Adriana Caccioppoli creates paintings that she freely places on street corners in Naples. The depiction of the kiss is a recurring motif in her works.
Aldam is a versatile street artist from Naples. Among other things, he likes to create skeletons that live in fish tins. There are regular exhibitions with him.
Jorit Agoch is perhaps the best-known street artist of Naples. His hyper-realistic portraits are recognized worldwide. He realizes façade-sized murals.
lsd_alisei is a product/set designer and dedicates his private time to his street art, especially his paste-ups, which can be seen everywhere in Naples.
Roxy in the box is an artist who stands out for her colorful and pop culture works. She often depicts celebrities and iconic figures.
Trallallà is best known for his cut-outs. His recurring motif of voluptuous sirens can be found on countless walls in the city.
unplatonic_ also creates cut-outs. His trademark are the doodles of hearts with which he decorates them and his unmistakable request: “Make Love.”
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The book is mainly in English with German translations for the main text. It is designed with numerous photos and is best read and viewed on Kindl Fire, tablet and PC, but of course also on a smartphone. With geocoordinates.
Now available at Amazon (all stores):
https://www.amazon.com/Hidden-Impact-iconography-Streetart-Ikonografie-ebook/dp/B0DH8PRNVN
New: now also available at Apple Books
Best read and viewed on iPad and Mac, but of course also on iPhone.