Space, art and scholarships: USI auctions 10 artworks

To support informatics students at Università della Svizzera italiana (USI) with one or more scholarships, ten exclusive artworks by artist Yuri Catania, titled "Lvgaxy Astro Flowers," are being auctioned. The prints, in a limited edition of only 10 pieces, were autographed by artist Yuri Catania and Swiss astronaut Claude Nicollier, portrayed in the work.

The proceeds will be used to fund one or more scholarships for deserving students in the field of informatics, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Faculty of Informatics at USI and their Alumni reunion. The artworks, created on cotton paper and measuring 60 x 90 cm, were donated by Yuri Catania to USI. Claude Nicollier, portrayed in the work, and Yuri Catania personally signed the prints, making them unique pieces with a strong symbolic value. The initiative confirms USI's long-standing commitment to the space sector, through its participation in the SXS -Space Exchange Switzerland consortium, with the task of promoting careers in space for Swiss students and young professionals. The auction was also possible thanks to the support of the City of Lugano, which originally commissioned the artwork displayed on the facade of the Palazzo dei Congressi. This initiative interweaves art, science, and solidarity, aiming to support new generations of students.

How to take part in the auction

The starting bid for each artwork is set at 300 CHF. To place a bid, please fill this form https://usi.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2gz9ztHWy8iFMuG by Friday, May 30 2025. In June, at the conclusion of the bidding, USI will select the 10 highest bids.