physically see sold for €15,000—around $18,000 at the time.

 

physically see sold for €15,000—around $18,000 at the time.

The invisible sculpture, titled Io Sono (“I Am”), even surpassed its estimated auction price. But the buyer didn’t take home a statue, painting, or physical object. Instead, the purchase came with a certificate of authenticity and instructions to display the artwork in an empty space measuring approximately 5 by 5 feet.

Garau argued that the sculpture exists beyond physical matter, through imagination and perception. According to his artistic concept, a seemingly empty space is never completely empty—it contains energy, potential, and endless possibilities. He described the invisible work as being composed of “air and spirit.”

Unsurprisingly, the sale triggered a major debate about conceptual and modern art. Some defended the piece, saying its true value was in the idea and philosophy behind it. Others questioned how something that cannot be seen or touched could be sold—and whether it should be considered art at all.