A New Beginning: The Metamorphosis of Romeo and Juliet at Windsor Castle

Driving through the grand entrance of Windsor Castle, the beating heart of the British monarchy, was a moment I will never forget. It was the culmination of months of preparation, dreams, and sacrifices. My works, born from the solitude of my studio, were about to be revealed before members of the royal family. The long-awaited day had finally arrived.

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The Journey to Windsor

It all began with an idea in 2021, when I decided to reinterpret Shakespeare’s classic “Romeo and Juliet.” As a native of Verona, I wanted to create something new, something that spoke not only of the past but also of the present. “Romeo and Juliet: The Metamorphosis” was born as a project that explores themes of love, transformation, and duality, using a combination of traditional and modern techniques.

This cultural project, into which I have invested so much, includes a collection of paintings, a documentary, a book, and a music album.

Months of Preparation

The months leading up to the event were a true journey. My artworks, originally stored in the United States, had to be safely transported to the United Kingdom. Every canvas, every frame, every single detail had to be perfect. The preparations were a logistical challenge: the artworks needed to be carefully packed, shipped across the ocean, and then reframed once they arrived.

But the challenges did not end there. The stringent security at Windsor Castle posed another obstacle: the company that was supposed to supply the exhibition panels was not allowed onto the castle grounds. In a surprising twist, the solution came from the Royal Military, who offered to build the exhibition panels for me.

The Day of the Event

Finally, the big day arrived. Walking into the castle, my heart racing, was an unforgettable moment. Every room in the castle was steeped in history and grandeur, an environment that seemed to breathe and pulse with the essence of the British monarchy. My artworks were impeccably arranged, ready to be admired by illustrious visitors.

Meeting Prince Edward

The highlight of the day was my meeting with His Royal Highness Prince Edward. Seated in a specially prepared room, we discussed art and culture over tea. Edward was deeply curious, eager to know every detail about my works. “Where are you from?” the Prince asked, his genuine interest shining in his eyes. “Are you a resident of the United Kingdom?” “Tell me about these paintings.” This cordial and respectful exchange was an honor for me, a moment I will remember forever.

The Military Parade

To celebrate the occasion, the field in front of the castle was transformed into a fairytale scene with a military parade. The presence of Prince Edward, brother of King Charles III, added a touch of majesty to the event. The Royal Guard, in traditional uniform, marched with precision and pride, creating a breathtaking spectacle that will remain etched in my memory.

Behind the Scenes

Behind the scenes, the event’s organization was supported by many key individuals, including the Oppo Foundation, Stacy Francis, Jamie Baulch, Cheryl Hicks (Jamie’s wife), and Melissa Farry. Their commitment and dedication were crucial to the success of the exhibition. Despite the intermittent rain complicating the preparations, every detail was meticulously attended to.

Reactions and Feedback

The public’s reactions were extraordinary. Many visitors lingered in front of the artworks, captivated by their emotional depth and intricate details. The Governor of Windsor Castle expressed his admiration for my work, adding another layer of satisfaction to the day.

The day at Windsor Castle was filled with wonder and emotion. The “Romeo and Juliet” collection made a spectacular debut, marking the beginning of a new chapter in my career. With upcoming exhibitions in Verona and New York, the entire world will have the opportunity to admire the beauty and emotional depth of the collection. And this is just the beginning.


This article was last updated on July 20, 2024 by Alex Righetto

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Alex Righetto

Alex Righetto is an Italian artist based in the US, known for his vibrant and bold paintings that reinterpret Italian and European history in a contemporary context. His work has been featured in various exhibitions and publications, including Vanity Fair and Vogue

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