Disappearing Satoshi statue in Lugano took 21 months to create, says artist

As a seasoned crypto investor who has been following the digital currency landscape since its inception, I find the creation of this disappearing statue of Satoshi Nakamoto truly intriguing and thought-provoking. Having first discovered Bitcoin back in 2011, it’s fascinating to witness how our decentralized hero’s legacy continues to inspire artists like Valentina Picozzi to push boundaries and explore innovative ways to connect people with the Bitcoin culture.


The artist responsible for a recently unveiled vanishing tribute dedicated to Bitcoin‘s founder Satoshi Nakamoto, located in Lugano, Switzerland, shares that it required 18 months of research and three months of construction.

Valentina Picozzi, who goes by Satoshigallery on X, stated that the aim of their project was to bridge individuals with Bitcoin (BTC) aesthetics via artwork. She mentioned that her most recent piece required a full 21 months for completion due to its unique characteristics.

As a researcher, I am honored to be given the chance to craft a tribute statue to Satoshi Nakamoto within the picturesque Parco Ciani of Lugano, Switzerland. The statue serves as a symbolic representation, vanishing before the eyes of the audience yet remaining palpable “in the code,” becoming an enduring emblem for Bitcoin users worldwide. #BitcoinArt

— Satoshigallery (@satoshigallery) October 25, 2024

From the side, you can easily recognize the sculpture of a figure engrossed in work on a laptop. However, if you approach it head-on or from behind, you’ll notice a transparent or translucent appearance because of its unique slit construction.

“Picozzi stated that the statue vanishes for the spectators, while ‘remnants of Satoshi’ can be seen ‘hidden within the lines of the coding.’

“Took 18 months to study how to make the concept of disappearing plus the idea of we are all Satoshi by placing yourself behind the statue.”

In early 2012, the Italian artist and orthodontist named Picozzi discovered Bitcoin and ever since, he’s been actively engaged as an artist advocate.

Standing proudly before the elegant Villa Ciani, a historical mansion dating back to the mid-1800s, I find myself gazing at a striking sculpture crafted from 304 stainless steel and corten blocks. This venue, now hosting a variety of events, serves as the perfect backdrop for this captivating piece of art.

The event took place during Plan B’s yearly convention in Lugano, where key figures from the blockchain sector, government representatives, and Bitcoin supporters congregated.

Disappearing Satoshi statue in Lugano took 21 months to create, says artist

The event has been running for the last three years, and Picozzi says the statue is also a celebration of the event and the Mayor of Lugano, who has been heavily involved in trying to bring blockchain tech to the city. 

Michelle Foletti, the mayor of Lugano, stated that the statue signifies the city’s continuous dedication towards advancements in digital technology.

He mentioned that Lugano is swiftly gaining prominence as a center for cutting-edge digital advancements, and this statue symbolizes Satoshi Nakamoto while also reflecting the progressive mindset that defines our city.

“Lugano embraced and welcomed Bitcoin since three years and it’s now called the Bitcoin city. It was the first and we need to celebrate that we can find open mind politicians like Michele Foletti, come and verify youself!” added Picozzi.

Instead, Picozzi mentioned that while the statue may not stay put at its current location, a definitive resting place for her artwork within Parco Ciani in Lugano’s permanent collection is yet to be determined, but it will remain part of their collection nonetheless.

Right now, she’s at Parco Ciani, standing in front of Villa Ciani, but since the city needs to carry out some construction projects, it will be relocated. Once I get the definite new location, I’ll announce it for the community. She added this.

Plan B is a partnership between Lugano and Tether, a stablecoin issuer, aiming to popularize Bitcoin and blockchain technology as the basis for modernizing Lugano’s financial system.

Another Satoshi Nakamoto in Hungary 

It’s not unprecedented that a city chooses to construct a statue honoring the anonymous inventor of Bitcoin. In fact, a similar bronze sculpture representing Satoshi Nakamoto was unveiled at Budapest’s Graphisoft Park back in 2021.

Disappearing Satoshi statue in Lugano took 21 months to create, says artist

Artists Gergely Réka and Tamás Gilly deliberately crafted the sculpture’s hooded figure to feature a reflection-like face.

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2024-10-28 07:40