The forms, proportions, and gestures of these bronze cast modern figures are classic. The facial expression of the sculpture serves as part of the reference point to appreciate the sculpture. Its muscles, lines, posture also are very good expressions of the artistic charm of the sculpture. The most obvious point of the expression is bronze material. Matt bronze surface. Not smooth. The beauty of the lines of bronze materials condenses the efforts of struggle. Contrast with the ancient style through an overtly modern and realistic form. Matteo Pugliese’s sculpture is a reinterpretation of classical sculpture. Pugliese’s “Guardians” series uses another sculptural language. Between high culture and pop culture, between perfect classical and graphic expression. A new form between the pinnacle of higher conscious culture and basic needs.
Matteo Pugliese’s sculptures are warriors refined by classical suggestions yet prisoners of a brutal matter, seized during the culminating fight, the moment before liberation; explosions of contracted power sculpted into bronze.