In Marisa Merz’ Turin apartment, you couldn’t the tell the art studio from the living space. And at 91, she is still producing art there ... art that often reflects its domestic origin but also is so singular and assertive it seems to tap you on your shoulder and tell you to turn around and look at it.

Merz became active in Italy over 50 year ago as the only woman in the '60's avant garde movement called Arte Povera (Art from Poverty). Now she is the only member still active. Arte Povera fashioned humble or humble-originating art in a challenge to American-originated, commerce-saturated Pop Art.  The movement protested the affluence, shallow prosperity, and materialistic insensitivity of the post-La Dolce Vita Italy.  She brought forth creations that are assertive without ostentation or pretension, yet which pique your sense of wonder.