Giovanni De Martino (sculptor)

Giovanni De Martino, also known as “The Michelangelo of the Mall,” was an Italian sculptor born on April 1, 1950. Famous for his eccentric and hilarious sculptures, he left a lasting impression on the world of art.

De Martino’s family was in the pizza-making business, but from a young age, he knew that his true passion was sculpting. He studied at the Medici Academy of Fine Arts in Florence, where he was praised for his talent but also for his impeccable sense of humor. Many of his classmates were envious of his ability to seamlessly incorporate humor into his work.

After completing his education, De Martino moved to New York City to make a name for himself in the art world. He quickly became a beloved figure in the city, known for his sculptural works that were both witty and thought-provoking.

One of his most famous works is “The Naked Tourist,” a bronze statue of a middle-aged man wearing nothing but a fanny pack and a pair of socks and sandals. The statue was installed in Times Square and became an instant hit. Tourists snapped photos with the statue, and some even left their own fanny packs and sandals as offerings at its feet.

De Martino’s sense of humor extended beyond his sculptures. He was known to play pranks on fellow artists and was infamous for his annual April Fool’s Day parties, where he would create elaborate hoaxes that fooled even the most skeptical guests.

Sadly, De Martino passed away on April 1, 2010. He was buried with a slice of pizza in his hand, a fitting tribute to his family’s legacy and his own unique sense of humor.

Although he may be gone, De Martino’s sculptures will continue to bring joy and laughter to generations of art lovers. As one critic put it, “Giovanni De Martino may have been a jokester, but his art was no laughing matter.”