Académie Vitti Museum (1889-1914): Traces of Ciociara Art in Paris and Back to the Roots

The Académie Vitti Museum is a fascinating treasure trove of memories and narratives, a compelling plot of redemption and emigration, where those who sought their fortune in Paris at the end of the nineteenth century abandoned their roots fleeing poverty. But it’s not just a story of challenges; It is also an enveloping tale of family love, a journey steeped in art and emancipation.

Maria, originally from Gallinaro, and Cesare, from Casalvieri, met in bustling Paris, where the sisters were models for the artists of Montmartre, and Cesare, artist, sculptor and model, found his muse. Together they opened “L’Académie Vitti” (49 Boulevard Montparnasse): a private art school for women at the end of the nineteenth century. This atelier was a Parisian artistic epicenter of great resonance, frequented by famous artists such as Gauguin, Picasso, Modigliani and Blanche. A revolutionary landmark for the time, where women could immerse themselves in the art of drawing with completely naked models.

With the outbreak of the First World War, the School of Painting closed its doors, and the Vitti-Caira family returned to Ciociaria, bringing with them a wealth of experience and knowledge, together with an extraordinary collection of materials. Inside the rooms that were once the family’s home on their return from France, it is possible to admire sketches and nude drawings, photographs of models taken by the great photographers of the time, including Nadar and Naudet, illustrated postcards documenting personal and professional relationships, and period material that captures the essence of those times.

For tourists, this is a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the fascinating stories of emigration, art and Ciociara culture, following in the footsteps of Cesare Vitti and his muses through the museum’s richly documented environments.