Amateurs Club Figurative Arts of Empoli
An artists’ association founded in 1957, housed in Palazzo Ghibellino on Piazza Farinata degli Uberti. The club continues to champion artistic freedom through exhibitions and cultural events.
At a glance
The Circolo Amatori Arti Figurative is a working artists’ association dedicated to painting, sculpture, ceramics and allied arts. Five founders—painters Carmignani Virgilio, Gambassi Piero, Cecchi Giovanni and Tognetti Piero, and sculptor Giuntini Ruffo—established the club on 26 October 1957 to provide exhibition and professional space for artists of all backgrounds and styles.
History
The association was formally constituted at the office of Notary Giuseppe Masi, with a charter welcoming members of any nationality, race or religion. The founding moment reflected postwar values of artistic inclusivity and creative freedom.
Palazzo Ghibellino, which houses the club, has its own distinguished past. Once owned by the Guidi Counts, it was renovated and redecorated by the Giomi family in the early 1600s with frescoes celebrating the Medici dynasty. Nearly seven decades on, the club remains active with regular exhibitions and cultural programming.
What you see
The palazzo contains three vaulted rooms dedicated to the club, complemented by a basement with a barrel-vaulted brick roof. These spaces serve as galleries and event venues.
Piazza Farinata degli Uberti itself commands attention. A neoclassical fountain dominates the square—historically called Piazza dei Leoni. The piazza’s eastern side is dominated by the Collegiata, whose splendid Romanesque façade represents the first local expression of Florentine style, echoing the grammar of the Baptistery and San Miniato a Monte in Florence.
Cultural significance
The Circolo embodies the postwar democratization of art in Italy, making exhibition space available to painters, sculptors, ceramicists and critics regardless of affiliation or background. For six decades it has sustained a living artistic community through shows, conferences, book presentations and museum excursions, maintaining the founders’ commitment to artistic expression.
Key facts
- Address: Piazza Farinata degli Uberti, 50053 Empoli, Toscana
- Founded: 26 October 1957
- Coordinates: 43.71983836686701, 10.945740938186646
- Phone: 0571700421
- Website: http://www.circoloartifigurative.it/
Practical information
The club hosts exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year. For current hours, exhibition schedules and admission details, consult the official website or telephone ahead.
Getting there
The club occupies Palazzo Ghibellino on Piazza Farinata degli Uberti in central Empoli. The piazza is accessible from the main streets framing the historic centre. Public parking and public transport connections serve the area.
Sources & resources
Find it on the map
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