Yuri Catania and his Astro Girls

What do the Astro Girls represent for you, and why did you choose this subject?
"My Astro Girls are futuristic explorers of every race and origin. For me, they are an artistic provocation meant to make us reflect on the new role of women in modern and future society, and on how they can be represented differently from the traditional iconography—often tied to common stereotypes such as the naked body or overt sensuality based solely on aesthetic appearance.
My astronauts, although born from my imagination, instead represent strong yet gentle female figures, in which beauty is intrinsic to the charm and elegance of their poses and attitudes. Rightfully, women can be both protagonists and pioneers on the new frontier of humanity: space exploration. It is not only a matter of equal opportunities but also one of real, scientifically recognized abilities. Studies show that women have the psycho-physical characteristics better suited for long-duration space missions and, in the distant future, might even be the only ones capable of colonizing new worlds, since life cannot be generated by man alone.
Beyond my artistic vision, the work is site-specific and also arises in tune with the client’s wishes. Credinvest Bank has placed an inclusive awareness at the heart of its corporate identity, and the choice of a female figure as the emblem of the work reflects their commitment to greater equity and the enhancement of female talent."

What were the main challenges in creating a street art piece on a glass building?
"Creating the world’s first street art work by a single artist on an entire glass building, covering a total area of over 500 m², represented an unprecedented technical challenge. The transparent surface required a material capable of ensuring visibility, durability, and a striking aesthetic effect, without compromising the building’s light or functionality. For this reason, we used an innovative technology: NanoTack Technology, a glass-specific adhesive material that allows for a stable and secure application while maintaining an impeccable visual effect.
A key aspect was the support of Tipack from Agno, which oversaw the entire process—from material selection to printing and application. Thanks to this collaboration, we managed to achieve a result that unites aesthetics, innovation, and longevity."

How does technology enrich the experience of those who view the work?
"Technology is intrinsic to my works because, as a contemporary artist, I constantly experiment and search for new forms of expression. Artificial intelligence and augmented reality have become an integral part of my language, even in street art, where the physical and the analog intertwine with the digital and the technological.
In Astro Credy, the figure of the astronaut was created entirely in post-photography through 3D modeling and a complex photorealistic rendering managed with artificial intelligence. The moon and the flowers, on the other hand, are photographs I took directly in our garden in Rovio, creating a contrast between the infinitely distant and the profoundly intimate. Finally, the butterflies come from the Monte Generoso area—a unique place with one of the most important biodiversities in our region, yet increasingly at risk.
Through augmented reality, the work becomes interactive: by scanning it with a smartphone via the Artivive app, viewers can experience a dynamic interaction that goes beyond the static image, immersing themselves in a visual narrative that evolves over time."

Why is it important to bring art into the urban space of Lugano?
"Ever since I created my first work in Lugano on the Palazzo dei Congressi during the NFT Festival, a special synergy has developed with the city. This is because institutions have recognized the value of urban art as a tool for communication and dialogue with the community.
Urban art brings beauty into public spaces and creates moments of collective reflection. It is not only about aesthetics but also about discussion, identity, and belonging. My next major work in Lugano, scheduled for spring, will be a monumental installation for USI (Università della Svizzera Italiana), which will speak to the thousands of people who orbit this extraordinary place every day: students, professors, administrative staff, and managers—all part of the university ecosystem.
Moreover, the participatory nature of my art creates a new way of socializing and building bridges between cultures and generations. The fact that people can become part of the work transforms art into a true public service, accessible and engaging for all ages and any level of artistic ability."

What is the message you want to leave for the citizens of Lugano with this work?
"The Credinvest Bank building is located at the entrance to the city, and since Astro Credy was installed, the work has become a kind of 'welcome' for those arriving in Lugano. Its meaning goes beyond aesthetics: it is a message about the future, inclusion, and innovation.
The astronaut looking beyond represents a city set on moving forward, capable of innovating and enhancing its own territory. Lugano is a city that knows how to combine the beauty of its natural setting—with the lake and the beginning of the Alpine chain—with a drive toward digitization and innovation. Astro Credy is a tribute to this dual spirit: a place that looks to the future without forgetting its identity and roots."