Italian artist and Arte Povera pioneer Michelangelo Pistoletto has been nominated for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, recognising his lifelong commitment to using art as a force for social change. The Gorbachev Foundation Association revealed the nomination during a February 21 event at the Alberoni Gallery in Piacenza, Italy, and later publicised by Pistoletto’s Citadellarte Foundation.
Pistoletto, now 91, responded to the honour with humility and purpose. “I see the nomination not just as a personal award for what I have done so far but as a commitment for future work,” he said.
Born in Biella, Italy, in 1933, Pistoletto gained international acclaim in the 1960s with his Mirror Paintings, reflective works that physically incorporated viewers into the artwork. He became a leading figure in the Arte Povera movement, which rejected consumerism and embraced unconventional materials such as discarded fabric, metal, and wood to challenge traditional artistic hierarchies.
One of his most enduring projects, Third Paradise, embodies his vision of art as a catalyst for peace. First conceived in 2003, the concept—represented by an infinity symbol with three loops—seeks to reconcile nature, humanity, and technology for a more sustainable future. The philosophy behind Third Paradise has inspired performances, installations, and political demonstrations, including a peace march in Cuba in 2014, where thousands joined him to advocate for reconciliation.
Pistoletto’s work continues through his Citadellarte Foundation, which promotes the role of art in fostering social responsibility. “Art must take on a propulsive role for radical change, bringing about a shared, responsible concept of humanity and a peaceful self-certification of intelligence,” he stated in a Q&A following his nomination. “I don’t know if we will reach peace, but working towards it makes me feel better.”
The Nobel Peace Prize winner will be announced in October and awarded in December 2025.
Top Photo: Detail Michelangelo Pistoletto in front of his solo exhibition at Robilant + Voena London, on view until 15 November 2024 – Photo @ Stephen Chung