Cordelia von den Steinen: Sculptor of Memory and Place

Cordelia von den Steinen, born Basel in 1941, stands as a prominent figure in Swiss sculpture, recognized for her distinctive blend of tradition and contemporary exploration. Her artistic journey began with formal studies at the Brera Academy in Milan, bolstered by a prestigious scholarship from the Museum of Art in Basel and the Swiss Federal Art Prize – opportunities that propelled her into the heart of European art discourse. This formative period instilled within her a deep appreciation for classical techniques alongside an inquisitive engagement with modern concepts. Her relocation to Versilia solidified her connection to the Italian artistic landscape, fostering collaborations and inspiring projects rooted in the region’s rich cultural heritage. Subsequently, she established herself in Paris, immersing herself in the vibrant intellectual milieu of the city and furthering her artistic experimentation. Throughout her career, von den Steinen has consistently pursued excellence, earning acclaim for her sculptural creations and contributing significantly to public art initiatives across Italy and Switzerland. Membership within esteemed institutions like Accademia di San Luca and Künstlerbund Deutschland underscores her commitment to artistic dialogue and scholarly rigor. Von den Steinen’s oeuvre is characterized by a profound sensitivity to material and form—primarily stone—which she manipulates with meticulous precision to convey narratives of memory and place. Influenced by figures such as Marino Marini, whose sculptural mastery championed humanist ideals, she adopted a stylistic approach that balances monumental scale with nuanced detail. Her sculptures often grapple with themes of history, identity, and the relationship between human beings and their environment—subjects explored through evocative imagery and masterful craftsmanship. A notable achievement is her involvement in the creation of “Fuga dal Museo,” a groundbreaking museum project situated in Pescara, Italy. This innovative initiative reimagines the conventional gallery experience by dispersing artworks throughout the city’s public spaces, fostering engagement with art beyond the confines of institutional walls. Furthermore, her collaborative work with Pietro Cascella resulted in the establishment of a unique artistic partnership dedicated to exploring sculptural expression and commemorating significant historical events—specifically, the Auschwitz memorial. Her artistic legacy extends far beyond individual projects; von den Steinen’s contributions have enriched the broader context of Swiss sculpture and cemented her position as a respected voice within the international art community. Her enduring fascination with stone – a material she considers “a dialogue between earth and spirit” – reflects a core belief in the transformative power of artistic practice to illuminate human experience and grapple with complex ethical considerations.