Who is Daniel Libeskind? The Architectural Genius behind “Life Electric”

Como is often recognised for its beautiful landscapes, but is rarely spoken about as being the birthplace of some of history’s most influential individuals. Among these notable people is Alessandro Volta, who is best known for inventing the electric battery. Volta is not only celebrated in the areas of science and innovation, but also throughout his hometown, where a plethora of structures and buildings pay tribute to his life and work. One striking tribute that successfully blends art and the region’s natural beauty is Life Electric, a sculpture designed by architect Daniel Libeskind.

Daniel Libeskind, born on May 12, 1946 in Łódź, Poland is an artist and architect. But his journey to architecture was not always a direct one. At an early age, Libeskind developed a love for music, specifically playing the accordion. His talent led him to achieve fame on both national and international scales. It was this early connection to the arts that led to his passion for architecture.

Libeskind’s childhood was split between Poland and Israel. However, as an adult he made his way over to the United States and established himself in New York City. It was here, in 1970, that he got his professional architectural degree from Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art and started to map out his architectural career.
Daniel Libeskind is best known for designing and completing the Jewish Museum in Berlin, Germany as well as being selected as the masterplan architect of the reconstruction of the World Trade Center. While his name is associated with architectural masterpieces on a global scale, Libeskind is recognised on a more local scale in Como as he, along with his architectural firm Studio Daniel Libeskind, were selected and trusted as the designer and sculptor of Life Electric in 2014. This piece not only acts as a beautiful part of the lake’s landscape, but as a powerful symbol of the city’s history of innovation.

Located on Diga Foranea Pier, about a hundred yards off of Como’s shore, The Life Electric is a beautiful structure made up of two sine waves. Its structure takes inspiration from Alessandro Volta as the waves are supposed to represent the electric tension between the two poles of a battery.

The structure was commissioned by “Gli Amici del Como” an organization whose main goal is to better the Como territory. The official inauguration of the sculpture took place on October 2, 2015 and was attended by the mayor of Como, Daniel Libeskind and his family, as well as Luigi Martino Volta, the nephew of Alessandro Volta.
Life Electric is an integral part of Como’s skyline. Monuments like this, as well as the Tempio Voltiano and the Faro Voltiano (The Lighthouse in Brunate) serve as enduring reminders of the rich history that has shaped the city’s identity. The sculpture stands as both a tribute to Alessandro Volta and a symbol of the connection between art, science, and place.