#United States #Austin #Sistine Chapel #Gary Lucchesi #Ordine al Merito

Gary Lucchesi Honored with Ordine al Merito del Lavoro

On November 12, 2025, Gary Lucchesi, a key partner in the creation of the groundbreaking Sistine Chapel Experience, received the prestigious Ordine al Merito del Lavoro award from the President of the Italian Republic. Lucchesi's achievement is particularly noteworthy, as he is the first American to be honored with this award since the well-known industrialist Lee Iacocca.

A Lifelong Commitment to Art

Gary Lucchesi has had a remarkable career in Hollywood. As a renowned producer, he has been involved in iconic projects such as Cats, Million Dollar Baby, and the Underworld series. His journey in the entertainment industry began at the William Morris Agency, where he represented several prominent artists, including Susan Sarandon and Kevin Costner. Lucchesi's breadth of experience extends to leadership roles at major film studios like Paramount Pictures and Lakeshore Entertainment.

Reflecting on his recent accolade, Lucchesi stated, "This honor is a testament to my lifelong love for art and my Italian heritage. The Sistine Chapel Experience embodies both, and I am proud to contribute to making such an incredible exhibition accessible to everyone."

The Sistine Chapel Experience

The Sistine Chapel Experience promises to be a groundbreaking exhibition, set to debut in Austin, Texas, on November 26, 2025. This immersive experience will span 25,000 square feet, offering visitors a breathtaking digital recreation of Michelangelo's frescoes, as well as the incredible works of his contemporaries, including Botticelli and Perugino. The exhibition is a collaboration with the Vatican Museums, Scripta Maneant, and Sistine Chapel Exhibits, LLC, which aims to bridge cultural preservation with modern technology.

Penn Parish, principal of Global Experiences, hailed Lucchesi's contributions as vital to the project's success. He noted, "Gary's dedication and passion have been instrumental in ensuring that the Sistine Chapel Experience does not just showcase art but transforms the way people engage with it. His commitment to preserving and sharing this rich artistic heritage resonates through every part of this initiative."

The Award itself

The Ordine al Merito del Lavoro, established in 1923, is an Italian honorary title awarded by the President to individuals who have exemplified exceptional merit in industry and commerce. By receiving this distinction, Lucchesi will earn the title of Cavaliere del Lavoro, adding to his impressive legacy in both the arts and cultural spheres.

The upcoming exhibition in Austin marks a significant milestone as it is set to become the first location in the United States to host the Sistine Chapel Experience, thus solidifying Texas's position as a cultural hub for showcasing international art.

Upcoming Exhibition Details

• - Location: Barton Creek Square Mall, Austin, Texas
• - Opening Date: November 26, 2025
• - Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
• - Duration: 50-90 minutes per visit
• - ADA Compliance: The experience is fully compliant with accessibility standards, welcoming visitors of all ages.

With such a historic recognition of an individual deeply committed to the arts, alongside an innovative exhibition on the horizon, Lucchesi's journey is a testament to the powerful intersection of culture and commerce. The Sistine Chapel Experience is set to leave a lasting impact on the art world and engage audiences in a celebration of Renaissance brilliance like never before.