Sirmione and Contemporary Art: Recognition for Franco Ghirardi

Last night, Wednesday the 19th, the Hotel Sirmione hosted the closing event of the public art exhibition PIETRA&Co.2025 – Identity in Noise and Silence, during which the Mayor of Sirmione, Luisa Lavelli, awarded the prestigious Grifone di Sirmione to Franco Ghirardi. This recognition celebrates his long career and significant contribution to the dialogue between the city, contemporary art, and the marble tradition of Brescia. The inscription on the award highlights the strong bond between Ghirardi and Sirmione, emphasizing how the artist has transformed ideas into tangible works that enrich the territory. Franco Ghirardi, originally from Carpenedolo and trained in the local school of architectural drawing, has dedicated his life to the art of marble, becoming a reference point for the artistic community. His influence also extends to the PIETRA&Co. exhibition, which he has inspired since its inception nearly twenty years ago. Sirmione’s ongoing commitment to contemporary art continues to grow, with new artists donating their works to the city, thereby contributing to an ever-richer and more diverse cultural heritage. Italian Version