A unique statue honoring Bitcoin’s mysterious founder, Satoshi Nakamoto, was unveiled over the weekend in Lugano, and it’s freaking cool!
The creative mind behind the statue
The artist behind this piece is Valentina Picozzi, an Italian artist who became a Bitcoiner back in 2012.
She shared that the statue took 21 months to complete, 18 months of research and an additional three months for construction.
Grateful for the opportunity to make a statue of Satoshi Nakamoto for the city of Lugano 🇨🇭displayed in Parco Ciani.
The statue disappears in front of the audience and what’s left of Satoshi in visible “between the lines” (of the code) for all the #bitcoin users.#bitcoinart https://t.co/tf6SOe2sxi pic.twitter.com/eW1VE5xwKk
— Satoshigallery (@satoshigallery) October 25, 2024
I think one could do the research in a way the process lasts 21 months, for the 21 million Bitcoin but still cool. Picozzi’s goal was to connect people to Bitcoin culture through art. And it works.
The statue features a faceless figure working on a laptop, but here’s the twist, you can only see it clearly from the side.
If you look at it from the front or back, it gives off a cool see-through effect thanks to its unique slit design.
“The statue disappears in front of the audience, what’s left of Satoshi is visible between the lines of the code.”
A symbol of innovation
Made from stainless steel and corten blocks, the statue is located right in front of Lugano’s Villa Ciani, a beautiful mid-1800s mansion that now hosts various events.
It was unveiled during Plan B’s annual forum, which brings together blockchain leaders, government officials, and Bitcoin fans.
This event has been running for three years now, and Picozzi sees her statue as a celebration of both the forum and Lugano’s mayor, Michele Foletti.
The mayor has been instrumental in promoting blockchain technology in the city. He stated that the statue symbolizes Lugano’s commitment to digital innovation.
“Lugano is rapidly becoming a leading hub for digital innovation. This statue honors Satoshi Nakamoto but also embodies the forward-thinking spirit that drives our city.”
Picozzi added, “Lugano embraced Bitcoin three years ago and is now known as the Bitcoin city. We need to celebrate that we have open-minded politicians like Michele Foletti!”
A temporary home
Now, here’s another twist, because while the statue is currently in Parco Ciani, its final resting place is still up in the air.
Picozzi mentioned that it will eventually be moved due to some upcoming city works.
“As soon as I have the final location, I will share it with the community,” she said.
One thing is for sure, this disappearing statue not only celebrates Satoshi Nakamoto but also clearly signals Lugano’s spirit.
