The museum is named after Giacomo Pomili (1925–1997), a naïve painter originally from Grottammare, who gave himself the nickname ‘Il Tarpato’ (the name he used to sign his works), alluding to a forced limitation of his abilities comparable to the condition of a bird with clipped wings.
Home to a substantial collection of paintings by this artist, the museum was founded in 2013 and refurbished in 2021 as part of a process of periodically reviewing its cultural and educational programme. It currently features two thematic exhibitions, one on each of the museum’s floors.
On the upper floor, the exhibition explores the relationship between Pomili and naïve painting, highlighting the main reasons for this association and seeking to situate ‘Il Tarpato’ within the broader social and cultural context of ‘spontaneous’ art.
On the lower floor, however, the exhibition explores a central aspect of Pomili’s artistic vision: his interest in the history and folklore of Grottammare. Drawing on insights from his paintings, it touches upon some of the most significant historical themes associated with the ancient village, as well as fairy-tale elements from folk tradition.
News and information: Musei Civici – Città di Grottammare