‘Beautiful lie or ugly truth’ is the evocative title of the masterpiece crafted by ZED1 for Prologis. This artwork distinguishes itself in its unique and evocative nature among the array of masterpieces adorning the walls of Bologna Interporto, all thanks to the artist’s distinctive signature style.

Marco Burresi, better known by his pseudonym ZED1, holds a prominent position in the ranks of celebrated Italian street artists. Born in Florence, Tuscany, in 1977, Marco embarked on his artistic journey, painting walls in the early 1990s. What sets him apart is his deeply personal artistic vision, one that is adept at capturing and articulating both societal and human-centric themes.

Encountering ZED1’s artistry offers viewers a dual introspection, an opportunity to delve into both the personal realm, exploring the emotional and psychological intricacies of humanity, and the broader societal landscape, a mirror reflecting our contemporary existence.

For Zed1, art remains incomplete without merging individual emotions with nuances of society. He employs a vivid storytelling approach, seamlessly weaving elements of both popular and traditional culture, creating visuals that are relatable and easily comprehensible. It is through this approach that his ‘characters’ are born – fantastical beings reminiscent of folklore and fairy tales – are born. When these characters are juxtaposed against diverse backdrops, they poignantly highlight the paradoxes of society and the inherent vulnerabilities of mankind.

The artwork, “Beautiful lie or ugly truth,” is brought to life with a palette of bold and saturated hues, echoing the intensity and immediacy of its underlying themes.

Human existence, fraught with choices, moral dilemmas, pervasive uncertainties, and challenges, is a recurring theme in ZED1’s work. He urges viewers to contemplate the emotional labyrinth that defines our era and our very essence.

Ultimately, Zed1’s aspiration extends beyond the canvas; he seeks to spark introspection and encourages individuals to embrace genuine self-expression, becoming catalysts for societal transformation. His guiding principles – authenticity, diversity, hope, and change – resonate deeply in both his artistic endeavors and his life ethos.

Zed1

Marco Burresi, known as Zed1, is one of the most appreciated and recognized figurative urban artists from Italy on the international stage. A native of Florence, he has been a prominent figure in the art scene since the mid-’90s. He developed a personal aesthetic that oscillates between irony, realism, and cynicism, inviting us to confront the major themes of life and the aspirations that humans constantly face, with all their vulnerabilities and contradictions. In this context, his creativity focuses on a reflection related to contemporary issues, titled “Beautiful Lie or Ugly Truth.” This reflection addresses one of the fundamental questions related to the challenges that society must face to improve and respect the existential limit of the surrounding nature.