In Padua, within the historic Palazzo della Ragione, stands the monumental installation “Ex It” by Yoko Ono, a profoundly symbolic artwork that conveys a message of peace and resilience through its visual and poetic power. The installation, open to the public until January 2025, consists of one hundred wooden coffins of various sizes, symbolizing men, women, and children. Each coffin houses an olive tree growing upwards, representing nature’s regenerative power and the hope for renewal even in times of profound pain and loss.
The inspiration for “Ex It” stems from Ono’s emotional experience during her visit to the Palazzo della Ragione, built in 1218 and a witness to episodes of violence and human suffering. As described by the artist, the vision of coffins arranged in rows and the subsequent blossoming of trees into a forest symbolize the healing process and humanity’s ability to regenerate and overcome collective pain. This universal message evokes not only past conflicts but also the urgent need to promote peace and solidarity in the present.
The exhibition is dedicated to the memory of art curator Paolo De Grandis, a longtime friend of Yoko Ono, who passed away in 2023. Through his vision and commitment to promoting contemporary art, De Grandis played a crucial role in bringing the installation to Padua. The curation is entrusted to Jon Hendricks, also a longtime collaborator of Ono, who has helped bring “Ex It” to other cities worldwide as part of the artist’s efforts to spread ideals of peace and reconciliation.
“Ex It” is set within a deeply symbolic location for Padua and the world’s cultural heritage, also home to the famous 14th-century fresco cycles, now recognized by UNESCO. According to Andrea Colasio, Padua’s Councillor for Culture, this exhibition represents an extraordinary opportunity to connect contemporary art with a historic site, allowing visitors to reflect on themes of great relevance to humanity that are more pertinent than ever.
Admission to the exhibition is free, though a fee is required to enter the Palazzo della Ragione. With its emotional impact and profound symbolic significance, “Ex It” is poised to leave a lasting impression on visitors, solidifying Yoko Ono’s reputation as one of the leading figures in pacifist art and humanistic thought in our time.
Cover photo from PadovaMusei official website