Piazza del Popolo - Rome

1988
Serigraph
Poster size 28" x 36 1/2" (71.12 x 92.71 cm)
A limited edition of 375 numbered impressions; 90AP, 16PP, 175HC, signed by the artist
Image also published as a poster, poster size 29 1/2" x 22" Poster has Russian text below the image, as it was made for a major exhibition in Russia. Fittingly enough, the artist and his publisher have chosen a refreshing outdoor cafe scene for summertime release. The Piazza del Popolo is just a short stroll from the storied Via Veneto in Rome. The piazza is dominated by the neighboring cathedrals of Santa Maria de Miracoli and Santa Maria di Monte Santo. In Neiman's rendering, the classic columns and dome can be seen to shimmer with subtle applications of bronze and gold. It is evening. The sky has taken on a deep purple cast, but its rich, weighty coloring seems to have no sobering effect on the gaily boisterous crowd gathered at a local pasticceria enjoying pastry, coffee, and cooling drinks. "This may be the hottest cool corner in Rome," the artist remarked. "Everyone seems to come here sooner or later." This simple yet sophisticated setting attracts Romans from all corners of the city. They come on foot or by car. The crowded plaza is jammed not only with noble Romans, but with Ferraris, Maseratis, and Alfa Romeos of every color and vintage. Neiman noted: "Cars that pass by have only two speeds- cruise and stop- but no one seems to mind." Piazza del Popolo is a place to see and be seen, and the good citizens of Rome are in no particular hurry to rush elsewhere. Would-be stars from Cinecitta sit side-by-side with wealthy industrialists as young and old alike pursue la dolce vita.