Massimo Catalani was born in Rome on April 2, 1960. Growing up in his family's stationery store, surrounded by books, brushes, and colors, he graduated in Architectural Composition in 1988 and joined the Rome Architects’ Association. His thesis project led him to experiment with painting techniques blending painting, sculpture, and architectural masonry, marking his debut as an artist.

In early group exhibitions, he presented irreverent subjects that challenged the art world yet engaged the public. His first solo show, “Natura Picta” at Roma&Arte, featured vibrant paintings with simple subjects and surprising materials, balancing conceptual and minimal art, reflecting his artistic and social activism. Over the years, he explored themes such as the mafia’s impact (“Galline”), the turbulence of the world (“Vedo Terra”), and tactile painting for the visually impaired (“Sento Terra”). He exhibited internationally in Geneva, Brussels, New York, Seoul, and more, presenting works that combine painting, sculpture, installations, and video art.

Catalani engaged in environmental and social projects, collaborating with Greenpeace and creating works for charitable causes. His art addresses urban agriculture, the beauty of everyday objects, architectural themes, and human emotions, often integrating performance, public participation, and innovative materials. Notable projects include “Radici del Vino Italiano”, the luminescent “Alice Luminescente”, “Ittico Obelisco”, and underwater sculpture “Ittico Zigguratt”. His works have been presented in museums, galleries, fairs, and international events, receiving recognition in cinema, television, and awards, and he continues to explore painting, sculpture, and environmental art with conceptual depth.