CONCEPT
The Third Paradise (Il Terzo Paradiso) is a worldwide artistic symbol conceived by the Italian artist Michelangelo Pistoletto, representing the fusion between the natural world and the world created by humanity. Its emblem, a reconfiguration of the mathematical infinity sign, with a third central circle, signifies a new balance – a third phase of humanity that transcends the conflict between the natural and the artificial to give birth to a sustainable and responsible civilization. At the heart of this vision lies the Formula of Creation, a conceptual foundation of Pistoletto’s art, expressed as: 1 + 1 = 3 where the encounter between two elements generates a third – the relationship – as the foundation of all evolutionary, artistic, and social processes.
Created using marble processing scraps from quarries and workshops from different parts of the world, the installation represents a bridge between past, present and future, embodying the eternal cycle of creation, memory, and transformation. The diverse origin of these discarded materials underscores the global interconnectedness of cultures and histories, while their re-use highlights a shift in paradigm: from exploitation to regeneration. In the shadow of the pyramids – which embody the continuity of civilization, the Third Paradise emerges as a contemporary symbol of renewal and responsibility and stands as a symbol of the concept of Preventive Peace, one actively built through responsible choices, shared knowledge, and collective harmony. Its presence among the pyramids of Giza amplifies its universal meaning, as a timeless dialogue between ancient wisdom and contemporary vision. This resonance is made even more significant by Pistoletto’s nomination for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, recognizing his lifelong commitment to art as a driver of social transformation and planetary balance
A collaboration between Fondazione Pistoletto Cittadellarte & the Italian Cultural Institute in Cairo