Founded in 1978, the Galleria Maggiore has focused on promoting the “modern classic”, meaning historically recognized artistic values – from Picasso to Magritte, from Klee to Chagall, from Morandi to Rosai. In some cases, scholarly work was still needed; in others, broader dissemination was the goal. As a result, the gallery’s activity has been defined by the organization of monographic exhibitions, with particular attention to the quality of critical scholarship.
Moreover, rather than presenting a wide range of names, Franco and Roberta Calarota chose to focus on a select group of artists, believing that a gallery should be a true point of reference, not merely a commercial intermediary. Within this approach lies the creation of comprehensive archives for artists such as Leoncillo and Mattia Moreni.
A similar line of analysis led to the identification of a further area of activity: the generation of artists such as Lucio Fontana, Arman, Clavé, and Allen Jones.“With regard to these generations now entering the canon,” explains Franco Calarota, “we believe that our approach is the most serious way to ensure that their work is not seen as having only temporary value, but rather one that is solid and increasingly recognized over time. The same reasoning applies to our openness toward more recent generations – from Fabrizio Plessi to Nino Longobardi, and Davide Benati – whose presence in high-profile exhibitions within major museum circuits confirms the validity of the work we are doing.”
In line with this vision, the gallery has demonstrated its capacity to be a trusted advisor to collectors, maintaining an ongoing and meaningful intellectual exchange. Franco Calarota continues: “This is how a collector develops a refined and consistent taste, and acquires the tools to make mature and informed decisions.”
At the same time, the gallery has established a substantial and respectful collaboration with museum institutions, offering them documentation and expertise on some of the most important figures of both Italian and international art history.
A clear example of this is the major exhibitions held in 2002, dedicated to Giorgio Morandi at the Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris, and to Leoncillo at the Rock Churches of Matera, both made possible thanks to the contribution of Galleria Maggiore.
A clear example of this is the major exhibitions held in 2002, dedicated to Giorgio Morandi at the Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris, and to Leoncillo at the Rock Churches of Matera, both made possible thanks to the contribution of Galleria Maggiore.
Roberta and Franco Calarota next to the model for the sculpture created by Arman for the entrance to the Imola circuit, dedicated to Dino and Enzo Ferrari. Behind Franco Calarota, a work by Giorgio Morandi is visible. On the right: The Gladiators, Giorgio De Chirico, 1928, oil on canvas, 92 x 73 cm.
