Fondazione Lorenzo il Magnifico was conceived in memory of Chimpi Ruiz (María Magdalena Ruiz), beginning with a private joke that she would have understood immediately and, we believe, found very funny.

The reference to Lorenzo de' Medici is intentional: his role as a patron of artists during the Renaissance remains one of the clearest historical examples of how material support can make artistic work possible.

In the same way, this exhibition could not have existed without the generosity of the people who made its production possible. Materials were funded, works were framed, transport and practical problems were resolved, time and labour were given, and support was offered at every stage.

For that reason, “Lorenzo il Magnifico” does not refer to a single person, but to a collective act of patronage. The name brings together all those who contributed to the work, from the people at Soviore to the friends, collaborators and supporters who helped in practical, financial and personal ways.

It is both an acknowledgment and a way of recognising that artistic work is rarely made by one person alone, even when only one name appears on the exhibition. What began as a private joke in memory of Chimpi Ruiz may eventually become something more concrete.

A structure capable of supporting artists in the same practical way this exhibition was supported. For now, Fondazione Lorenzo il Magnifico exists to acknowledge that support and to honour Chimpi Ruiz through something she would have understood very well: seriousness of purpose without losing a sense of humour.