''Our Lady of Fatima''
This work is part of the collection of the Museum of the Sanctuary of Fatima
''Our Lady of Fatima" by Maestro Raffaele Ciotola: A Masterpiece of Faith and Devotion
Maestro Raffaele Ciotola work, "Our Lady of Fatima," represents a moment of art and devotion that transcends the boundaries of time and culture. Unlike a modern reinterpretation of the subject, Ciotola chose to maintain historical accuracy and fidelity, basing his work on meticulous and respectful research of the descriptions provided by the visionaries of the Fatima apparitions. Every detail of the painting has been carefully studied to honor the depiction reported by the shepherd children, from the garments to the dark color of the Madonna eyes, as described in the original visions.
This masterpiece, now part of the collection at the Museum of Fatima in Portugal, is a source of pride for Italian art and symbolizes Ciotola profound respect for religious and cultural traditions. His attention to detail from the deep tone of the Virgin's gaze, filled with compassion and mystery, to the drapery of her garments that evoke the simplicity and humility of the Marian figure demonstrates not only his technical mastery but also his spiritual devotion and sensitivity.
The canvas is characterized by an extraordinary luminosity that transcends the physicality of the subject, instilling in the viewer a sense of peace and profound reflection. The delicate colors and well-calibrated chiaroscuro confer a sacred, almost mystical aura to the painting, bringing the viewer closer to the figure of the Madonna as a symbol of universal love and compassion.
In this representation, Ciotola not only honors the iconographic tradition of Our Lady of Fatima but also amplifies the power of the message of hope and faith that has always accompanied this figure. The choice to depict her authentically as described by the visionaries conveys the desire to make a spiritual symbol accessible to all, speaking directly to the soul without filters or modern reinterpretations.
With this work, Ciotola elevates religious painting to a level of intimacy and universality, demonstrating that spirituality can be experienced with simplicity and purity. This piece invites reflection on the strength of the sacred in everyday life, a call to the essence of human values that transcend time and culture, aligning with the artist profound mission to communicate, through beauty and faith, a message of unity and love.
Its inclusion in the Museum of Fatima attests to the international value of the work and the significance of Ciotola artistic journey, confirming him as a relevant figure in the contemporary art scene. He is capable of blending tradition and universal resonance with extraordinary historical fidelity.
''SAINT BONAVENTURE FROM BAGNOREGIO''
CARDINAL, BISHOP OF ALBANO, DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH AND FRANCISCAN
This artwork is part of the Cathedral of Santi Nicola, Donato e Bonaventura di Bagnoregio - Viterbo. In this painting, the artist Raffaele Ciotola depicted ''San Bonaventura'' in a majestic way to highlight the royal soul of a special Saint on all fronts, religious/cultural.
He was bishop of Albano and doctor of the Church, shone with religious doctrine and lived a life of holiness at the service of the Church.
A man of great charisma who managed with great faith to contemplate the Divine Essence of God, a precious goal that makes San Bonaventura a great character of Christian culture.
Pictorial work created by Maestro Raffaele Ciotola.
'' The Prophet Muhammad ''
Muhammad (Arabic: مُحَمَّد; c. 570 – 8 June 632 CE) was an Arab religious, social, and political leader and the founder of Islam. According to Islamic doctrine, he was a prophet divinely inspired to preach and confirm the monotheistic teachings of Adam, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and other prophets. He is believed to be the Seal of the Prophets within Islam. Muhammad united Arabia into a single Muslim polity, with the Quran as well as his teachings and practices forming the basis of Islamic religious belief.
Muhammad was born in approximately 570 CE in Mecca.
SAN GENNARO PATRON OF NAPLES
The Feast of San Gennaro is celebrated on 19 September in the General Roman Calendar of the Catholic Church. In the Eastern Church, it is celebrated on 21 April. The city of Naples has more than fifty official patron saints, although its principal patron is Saint Januarius.
In the United States, the Feast of San Gennaro is also a highlight of the year for New York's Little Italy, with the saint's polychrome statue carried through the middle of a street fair stretching for blocks.
Raffaele Ciotola: Pioneer of Contemporary and Social Art
Raffaele Ciotola is a renowned Neapolitan artist, born on October 17, 1964, who stands out in the contemporary art scene for his unique ability to blend aesthetic innovation with a strong social commitment. His career has been marked by a revolutionary approach, capable of redefining the boundaries of modern art and exploring critical themes such as inclusion, civil rights, and social justice. His works, with their powerful emotional and visual impact, communicate universal messages that encourage reflection and change.
Education and Artistic Influences
Ciotola is not a self-taught artist, but a Master of Art with a solid academic education. After earning his Maturità Artistica, he distinguished himself for his passion for music, studying Bel Canto (Lower level – tenor) at the Conservatory of San Pietro a Majella in Naples. This experience further enriched his artistic vision and expressive capability. His formal education and academic experiences, combined with his sensitivity, enable him to explore and manipulate various artistic languages, uniquely combining tradition and innovation. His artistic influences range from classical Neapolitan art to international avant-garde movements, creating an ongoing dialogue between past and present. This approach allows him to confront contemporary social and political challenges, using art as a powerful communication tool to raise awareness and promote change.
Social Commitment and Creativity
Raffaele Ciotola has always conceived art not only as a form of aesthetic expression but also as a means of social reflection. His works have never been simple visual representations but manifestations of critical thought, exploring power dynamics, social inequalities, and the need for inclusivity. With an original and bold visual language, he has captured the public’s attention, creating works that are both provocative and immensely beautiful.
Ciotola has demonstrated how art can be a powerful vehicle for communicating universal human values and stimulating public dialogue on relevant social issues. Thanks to his education and vision, the Master manages to convey his commitment to society through each of his creations, making each work a symbol of change and hope.
Recognition and International Impact
Raffaele Ciotola works have received recognition in numerous countries, with exhibitions and participation in internationally significant events. His shows have attracted the attention of critics, gallery owners, and museum curators, solidifying his position as one of the most influential and controversial Italian artists of his generation. His transgressive approach and his ability to provoke deep reflection on current issues make him a prominent figure in the contemporary art world.
A Manifesto of Artistic Innovation
Raffaele Ciotola is not just a visual artist but also a true cultural innovator. Through his art, he tackles complex themes and stimulates public discussion on civil rights, equity, and social justice. His works, rich in chromatic intensity and refined chiaroscuro techniques, create a unique synergy between aesthetics and content, making them accessible to a wide audience. Each piece is an invitation to reflection, an exploration of human emotions and the challenges of contemporary life.