Addio a Cleto Munari, il Maestro del Colore

Cleto Munari, an influential Italian designer whose work is displayed in over 110 international museums, died Thursday, June 18, at his home in Brendola at age 95. According to regional and local officials, Munari’s career spanned jewelry, furniture, and public art, including collaborations with Andy Warhol and mentor Carlo Scarpa.

Munari’s health declined at the start of the year, though he continued to sign projects and create objects until his final day, according to reports on his passing. He was born in Gorizia in 1930 and spent his early years in Vicenza.

How did Cleto Munari influence international design?

Munari transitioned from commerce and clothing to design in 1972 after meeting architect Carlo Scarpa. He became a “disciple” of Scarpa, sharing professional activities and entrepreneurial ventures, according to biographical records.

His portfolio included graphics, fashion, eyewear, and furniture. His work is held by the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the MoMA in New York, among more than 110 museums worldwide.

Did You Know? Cleto Munari collaborated with a diverse network of global figures, including Andy Warhol, Dario Fo, Sottsass, Mendini, Botta, Ferlinghetti, and Max Strand.

Munari also worked alongside 20th-century masters such as Giò Ponti, Vico Magistretti, and Achille Castiglioni. He maintained professional ties with figures like Jorge Amado and architect Kenzo Tange.

What was Munari’s impact on the Veneto region?

Mayor Giacomo Possamai described Munari as a generous artist who contributed to the cultural growth of Vicenza. On September 8, 2024, the city awarded him the Gold Medal of Merit as a distinguished citizen.

S2E5 Il Maestro dell'Arte del Colore

President of the Veneto Region Alberto Stefani stated that the region lost one of the most authoritative and original figures of contemporary Italian design. Stefani noted that Munari’s work promoted the “culture of beauty” that characterizes the territory.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that Munari’s ability to bridge the gap between high-concept architecture—via his mentorship under Carlo Scarpa—and commercial application in eyewear and jewelry allowed his work to penetrate both elite museum spaces and everyday functional design.

Regional Culture Assessor Valeria Mantovan highlighted Munari’s “artistic foresight,” specifically citing his collaborations with Chinese museums and companies that began in 2025.

What happens next for Munari’s estate and legacy?

Funeral services are scheduled for Monday, June 22, at 4 p.m. at the Madonna dei Prati church in Brendola. A viewing will be held Saturday, June 20, and Sunday, June 21, at the Sgolmin and Lovato funeral home in Montecchio Maggiore.

His artistic presence may continue through previously scheduled events. In January 2026, he had been invited to exhibit works at the Golden House of Palazzo delle Poste for “ViOff Golden Key.”

The logo for “Vicenza Capital of Kindness 2026,” which Munari helped judge, is likely to remain a visible symbol of his final contributions to the territory, according to Province President Andrea Nardin.

Frequently Asked Questions

When and where did Cleto Munari die?
He passed away on the evening of Thursday, June 18, at his home in Brendola.

Which major museums house Cleto Munari’s work?
His works are exhibited in over 110 international museums, including the MoMA and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

Who was Cleto Munari’s primary mentor?
He was a disciple and collaborator of the architect Carlo Scarpa, whom he met in 1972.

How do you think the integration of art into everyday functional objects, like eyewear or furniture, changes our perception of beauty?