Micaela Cometa Xerra, born in Palermo in 1985, channels the volcanic spirit and resilience of her native Sicily into striking works of art. Her journey—spanning studies in advertising, years in Milan’s creative industry, and global travels through Australia, Indonesia, and the Canary Islands—culminates in Lanzarote, where over 200 dormant volcanoes fuel her creative energy.
The Art and Its Origins
At the heart of Micaela’s material-driven approach is a deep connection to nature. She integrates lava, salt, sand, picon, cochineal, and even blood into her pieces, crafting vivid landscapes that pulse with life and the promise of renewal. These organic materials embody the strength and regenerative power of volcanic lands, inviting viewers to experience both fury and rebirth.
Artistic Style and Statement
Having transitioned from acrylic painting to material art after a formative course at MoMA NYC, Micaela now identifies with Neo-expressionism. Her canvases mark a return from abstraction to figuration, driven by color, emotion, and references to nature. Emptiness—represented by vacant circles—is a recurring motif, hinting at spiritual transcendence. Her expressive works span a wide range: paintings, large works on paper, prints, tapestries, and even computer-generated images.
Notable Exhibitions and Collaborations
Since fully dedicating herself to art during the 2020 pandemic, Micaela’s works have graced both solo and collective exhibitions worldwide, including international fairs like Art Basel Miami, Art Basel Switzerland, La Biennale di Genova, and Lacuna Festival in Canary Islands. Collections of her art are held in both private and corporate hands, and she is currently collaborating with galleries and cultural institutions across Europe. Her upcoming project—a tribute to César Manrique with the Canary Islands Government—demonstrates her commitment to celebrating natural beauty and creative legacy.
Press, Recognition, and Future Directions
Micaela’s talent is recognized in press and exhibitions: from reviews in masscultura.com, Revistart, and platforms like PAC, to TV features in Biosfera Arte TV and TV Canaria. Her work, praised for its naturalistic power and fresh material expressions, continues to evolve with new collaborations and the promise of further exhibitions—including the GAM Museum Palermo in 2026.
