Jobaaj Stories
Valentina Tomada: Voice of Elica Balla's Wartime Memoirs
Valentina Tomada, a talented actress, played a key role in the inauguration of the "Elica Balla, Art in Wartime" exhibition in Rome. Held at the House of Memory and History from April 18th to May 16th, 2019, the exhibition showcased the life and art of Elica Balla, daughter of the renowned Futurist painter Giacomo Balla. Tomada's contribution involved the captivating recitation of excerpts from Elica's poignant wartime memoirs, bringing the artist's experiences to life.
Elica Balla: A Daughter's Perspective on War
The exhibition offered a unique perspective on World War II through the eyes of Elica Balla. Her writings and artwork, displayed alongside family documents, provided intimate glimpses into daily life under the Nazi occupation of Rome. Elica's memoirs recounted both the harrowing realities of war and the resilience and humor of the Roman people. Her artistic talent, particularly her love for painting skies, revealed a sensitive and optimistic spirit.
A Unique Exhibition
The exhibition featured not only Elica's artwork but also intriguing artifacts from the Balla household, including a fascinating "mysterious painting" with a hidden image beneath layers of paint. The exhibition also highlighted the collaborative work of Elica and her sister Luce, showcasing their self-portraits and the unique furniture they created from repurposed fruit crates. The curatorial team, including Bianca Cimiotta Lami and Simone Aleandri, meticulously detailed the scientific processes involved in uncovering the hidden painting.
Tomada's Role and the Exhibition's Impact
Valentina Tomada's performance at the exhibition's opening was instrumental in conveying the emotional depth of Elica Balla's memoirs. Her voice served as a bridge, connecting the audience with the personal experiences recounted within the diary entries, bringing a human touch to the historical context. The exhibition itself provided a powerful testament to the human spirit's capacity for both resilience and artistic expression during times of immense hardship. The free admission ensured accessibility for all those interested in experiencing this unique historical and artistic perspective.
