NSC (I am not Christian)（2007），Bronze，180 × 70 × 160 cm，The Parkview Museum Collection

Roberto Barni born in Pistoia, Italy in 1939. Now lives and works in Florence. In his artistic trajectory Roberto Barni has, in a completely original way, proceeded along that old path, presenting a new interpretation of the human figure as centre of his research and creations. The facile indifference, the constant weariness, the irresolute bearing of Roberto Barni’s figures, with their introverted, distinctionless, static faces, which are often painted white or light grey, like a mask, convey the ambivalent feelings a pathos and resignation, cautious hope and melancholy passivity. 

Barni’s figures are placed in a variety of situations, with the real, physical space around the sculpture often taking on a metaphoric significance. Angles, small chambers, stairs, or even walls play a role in creating specific, animated spaces around the sculptures. In these spatial situations, the sculptures operate as actors, attempting to find their way to the lost, ideal land.

In NSC, two identical men, both dressed in red, one standing and the other turned horizontally, create a cross, a form that is very much liked by the artist, as well as being the symbol of Christianity. The title NSC is an acronym, which can stand for more meanings: ‘I’m not Christian’, ‘I don’t know how’ and ‘Not without Christ’. The acronym is an open and intimate statement by the artist, who describes himself as a non religious believer (I’m not Christian), without a reason for his non belief (I don’t know how) but sure of the importance of Christ’s figure beyond his religious value (Not without Christ).