Franco fortunato | Tracce di F. - Appunti sulla vita di Francesco d'Assisi

On Friday, September 11, 2026, the exhibition “Tracce di F. | Appunti sulla vita di Francesco d’Assisi” (Traces of F. | Notes on the Life of Francis of Assisi)—a major cycle of paintings by Maestro Franco Fortunato—will open in the Perkins Hall of the Treasury Museum at the Sacred Convent of Saint Francis in Assisi. Held during the 800th anniversary of the Saint’s death, this exhibition at the Sacred Convent of Assisi marks the natural continuation of the journey of this fascinating body of work, which was previously presented during the 2025 Jubilee Year at the Vatican Chancellery exhibition spaces in Rome. This significant event takes place under the auspices of the “San Francesco 1226-2026: National Committee for the Celebration of the Eighth Centenary of the Death of Saint Francis of Assisi.” The paintings are the result of extensive historical research based on the study of existing biographies, particularly the one written by Thomas of Celano. As is always the case with the Roman artist’s work, the Maestro has applied great dedication and depth to selecting some of the most significant moments and episodes from the life of the Saint of Assisi. He has transformed them—through a distinctive artistic approach that blends the lessons of the great masters of the past with an iconic gift for invention—into a series of works that offer the viewer an exhilarating aesthetic and intellectual experience. In this way, Franco Fortunato has created another great contemporary tableau, sketching the profile of a revolutionary historical figure who—drawing upon Gospel principles and guided by a specific rule, but above all by his own conduct and discipline—highlights the fundamental importance of respecting nature and its inhabitants, fostering a sense of brotherhood with all people, and eschewing luxury and wealth in favor of peace and understanding; he thus remains the bearer of a message that is as relevant today as it was eight hundred years ago. Curated by Francesco Ciaffi and Studio Franco Fortunato, the exhibition is organized by the Edarcom Europa Gallery and is accompanied by a catalogue published by De Luca Editori d’Arte, featuring a significant essay by Professor Giovanni Mazzini. It is further enriched by an innovative short film directed by Valentina Grossi, with music by Rudi Beinroth, produced by CUT& Editing & More. Read more Toggle Painting