Hillside in the Morning

1914–1929

Drawing teacher in Bologna's elementary schools

He is appointed instructor of drawing in the elementary schools of Bologna, a post he holds until 1929; his family's financial difficulties keep him in his home city.

1930–1956

Chair of etching technique at the Bologna Academy

His successes in etching during the 1920s allow him to head the chair of engraving technique at the Bologna Academy of Fine Arts, which he holds until 1956.

1931

Works at the Rome Quadriennale

From 1928 he exhibits in Italy and abroad; from 1931 his work is shown at the most prestigious national exhibition, the Rome Quadriennale (in 1931 and 1935).

mid-1930s

Longhi and Vitali: recognition and a long friendship

His painting is highly praised by the art historian Roberto Longhi and by Lamberto Vitali, a major collector, critic and entrepreneur; both later become his friends for many years. Vitali will become one of the largest collectors of his work and the author of the catalogue of his graphic work published in his lifetime (1957).

1939

A room of his own at the 3rd Rome Quadriennale: 42 paintings

He is given the honour of showing 42 of his paintings in a separate room at the 3rd Rome Quadriennale; his painting is becoming an ever more noticeable presence in Italian art.

1943

Arrested over his anti-Fascist friendships

Because of his friendships with anti-Fascist figures, the authorities arrest him briefly; Roberto Longhi helps to get the artist out of the Bologna prison.