Goldrake Sails Into Canal Grande for “Creature di Gomma” Festival Debut
The iconic robot Goldrake made a spectacular entrance at the inaugural day of the Venice Carnival. The 1978 carousel was transported from Tronchetto to the San Marco Basin and then ascended the Grand Canal to the “Creature di Gomma – Venice Vintage Toys” museum located in San Stin.
Goldrake’s Journey Through Venice
The event was highlighted by the presence of Sebastiano Costalonga, the city’s commerce and production activities assessor. He expressed his excitement about Goldrake’s journey, stating, “It was thrilling to witness the interstellar voyage of Goldrake through our lagoon.” Costalonga emphasized that seeing this symbol of justice navigating majestically along the Grand Canal created a poignant link between past and present generations.
Restoration and Cultural Significance
The carousel, one of the last three operational pieces in Italy, had been in a state of neglect before being restored by skilled artisans. They meticulously revived its original colors and mechanical features. Children visiting the museum can experience the nostalgia of using vintage tokens from the Maggi company.
Related Activities at the Museum
- The museum hosted the book launch “Goldrake U” by Fausto Avaro, accompanied by a signing event with illustrator Andrea Yuu Dentuto.
- “Creature di Gomma” features over 7,000 vintage toys, including collections dedicated to Star Wars and rare figures from Topo Gigio and the Flintstones.
Fabrizio Fontanella, the founder of the museum, used the occasion to address the need for a larger space, emphasizing that their current 170 square meters is insufficient for new section requests from visitors, such as Pokémon and The Simpsons. He indicated the importance of educational displays to enhance the cultural value of the exhibition.
With the support of the local government, Fontanella hopes to expand the museum to better serve its audience and preserve the legacy of beloved vintage toys. This event not only celebrated Goldrake but also highlighted the intersection of popular culture and tradition in Venice.
