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Nanni Balestrini (1935 – 2019) was an influential Italian experimental poet, novelist, and visual artist associated with the avant-garde literary movements and political activism of post-war Italy. He was known for pushing the boundaries of traditional literature through innovative textual practices and exploring the intersections between language, visual arts, and politics. As a leading figure of the Italian neo-avant-garde, Balestrini co-founded "Gruppo 63," a literary collective that challenged conventional forms and narrative structures. He was instrumental in introducing techniques such as cut-ups and collage into Italian literature, employing randomized and computer-generated methods in his poetry and prose. His groundbreaking experimental novel Tristano (1966) is one of the first literary works produced using computer algorithms, making each printed copy unique. Throughout his career, Balestrini published numerous significant works, including the politically charged novels Vogliamo tutto ("We Want Everything," 1971) and Gli invisibili ("The Unseen," 1987), both inspired by social movements and political turmoil in Italy during the 1960s and 1970s. His literary works often addressed themes of social resistance, class struggle, and political activism. Balestrini's artistic practice extended beyond literature, encompassing visual and conceptual art. His visual poems and collage works were exhibited in prominent international institutions and galleries, reflecting his ongoing exploration of language as visual expression. Today, Nanni Balestrini's innovative contributions to literature, art, and political discourse continue to inspire contemporary experimental artists and writers, highlighting his enduring legacy in the cultural landscape of the 20th and 21st centuries.