CURRENT EXHIBITION
ARVEDO ARVEDI:
Different Languages • Ancient Memories
June 18 – July 2, 2025
On June 18, we will be hosting a show opening for Italian artist, Arvedo Arvedi. His show,
Different Languages Ancient Memories,
will run through July 2.
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Thirty years after assisting John David Mooney on STAR DANCE for the Atlanta Olympics, Arvedo Arvedi returns to Chicago with an exhibition of his recent works.
Now, decades later, he makes his return to the city and foundation, which he considers a second home—this time, as a hosted artist.
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In DIFFERENT LANGUAGES • ANCIENT MEMORIES, Arvedo Arvedi unfolds the exhibition across four thematic sections, including a striking series of large-scale canvases representing the four elements (Fire, Air, Water, & Earth), the "Wall of Dancing Warriors" which features over forty smaller works that come together to create a visually-stunning and cohesive display, and a dedicated space for his Arte da Vestige project: limited-edition pashmina scarves that merge fine art with design and storytelling.
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DIFFERENT LANGUAGES • ANCIENT MEMORIES is more than a return to Arvedo's "artistic home," it is a reconnection: to place, to memory, and to the essential role of art as a shred language in a world that's never been louder—or more disconnected.
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About the Artist:​​
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Of noble Veronese heritage, Count Arvedo Arvedi was raised in the family villa, where he cultivated a deep passion for the arts—fueled by ongoing cultural exchange with esteemed guests and renowned artists from Italy and abroad. In 1993, he developed an interest in American Pop Art and met internationally acclaimed artist John David Mooney in Chicago. This encounter sparked a decade-long collaboration on global art projects, culminating in this exhibition our foundation.
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In 2006, Arvedi relocated to Rome, where he worked alongside artist Massimo Catalani on La Casa dei Pesci, a project dedicated to protecting marine life by opposing the use of trawl nets.
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Arvedo's action-oriented technique, painting with hands, brushes, and pipettes, channels ancestral forms drawn from Hopi cave paintings, the Nazca lines, and Saharan rock engravings. The result is a powerful visual language that transcends borders and time, aiming not to ex-
plain, but to connect.
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In recent years, Arvedi has focused on 'corporate art,' partnering with prestigious brands to merge artistic expression with corporate identity. He currently serves as the corporate artist for Commodore Industries.
His work has been exhibited in major cities including Rome, Milan, New York, Chicago, Cannes, Venice, Matera, and Verona.
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Photo Credit: Iryna Kalamurza
Our Mission
The John David Mooney Foundation is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) educational arts organization located in Chicago, IL.
The Mooney Foundation is a collaborative workspace, a public venue, an artistic laboratory and a working archive. The Foundation utilizes its multiple gallery spaces to exhibit art and host events.
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With a focus on international art and artists, the Foundation offers free public exhibitions, lectures and educational seminars throughout the year.
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For over 40 years, the John David Mooney Foundation has also offered Internships and Apprenticeships aimed at providing artists with the opportunities to create new works, gain exposure, and develop new leadership opportunities within the community at large.
The Foundation's work is for the community, and it is sustained by the community.
The John David Mooney Foundation offers its programs and exhibitions on a complimentary basis to all.
Our mission to create wholly accessible public platforms for creative and cross-cultural discourse in Chicago is accomplished thanks to the commitment of donors, volunteers, and advocates who give of their time, talent, and resources.