THE ARCHETIPE
The work of Alessandro Pongan is organized around a central character: the Prono (prone, procumbent). We are faced with the invention of a contemporary archetype that to some extent establishes a dialogue with the Vitruvian Man drawn by Leonardo. The Prono is a character represented in different contexts, languages and formats, without ever losing his identity, even when joined by a series of collateral factors and figures. He is solid, geometric, archaic and pop at the same time. He resonates with overtones of the statues of Easter Island, of Mayan and Aztec imagery, but also Japanese manga and UFO-robots, graffiti and comics. He spreads tangible spiritual energy, a sense of mystery and pursuit of the meaning of existence. Like many archetypes, he has a dual nature. On all fours, a sign of sacrifice and subjugation, the typical posture of the oppressed. But at the same time an accumulator of energy. In the massive body, we sense the tension of a sprinter at the starting blocks. A creature utterly alert, waiting for the signal to leap forward. To break free of any constraints, any inhibition.It is no coincidence that Prono reminds us of another mythological figure: Cronos, the Titan son of Uranus (sky) and Gaia (earth). Prono is the symbol of the potential redemption that lies within us. He bows on the ground, but gazes forward. Beyond the horizon.
