Dynamism of a Soccer Player, 1913
Oil on canvas
76 × 79 inches | 193 × 201 cm
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Umberto Boccioni (b. 1882, Reggio Calabria, Italy – d. 1916, Verona, Italy) was a key figure in the Futurism movement, renowned for his work as both a sculptor and painter. Starting with Neo-Impressionism, he initially focused on portraits and landscapes. His exposure to Cubism led to a radical transformation in his style, reflecting his critical and rebellious nature, which significantly contributed to the development of Futurism. In 1912, Boccioni exhibited paintings with other Italian Futurists at the Galerie Bernhaim-Jeune and showcased his sculptures at the Galerie La Boétie the following year. These exhibitions, inspired by his Parisian experiences, also likely influenced Cubist sculptors such as Duchamp-Villon.
In May 1916, Boccioni was drafted into the Italian army and tragically died during a cavalry training exercise at the age of 33. His impact on the Futurist movement was profound, with his seminal texts and artwork leaving a lasting legacy. His works are featured in numerous public art museums, and in 1988, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York held a major retrospective showcasing 100 pieces of his art.