ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

New Milanese Cultural Association OPA Reimagines Art as Playground

institutional · 2026-07-23

A new cultural initiative named OPA has made its debut in Milan, founded by nine women leaders in various fields, including notable figures Alice Arcangeli, Anita Dal Sasso, and Dora Casadio. Its aim is to cultivate creativity beyond commercial interests. The group's manifesto emphasizes that culture should serve as a playground rather than a stage. OPA launched its first event at WMilano on via Washington and intends to present a series of thematic programs exploring art, performances, and dialogues. The inaugural theme will center on artificial intelligence, integrating diverse social and political perspectives.

Key facts

  • OPA is a new cultural association in Milan founded by nine women professionals.
  • Founders include Alice Arcangeli, Anita Dal Sasso, Dafne Riva, Dora Casadio, Erica Massaccesi, Ilona Särkkö, Jael Arazi, Maria Carolina Mitchell, and Tea Burgisser.
  • Dora Casadio initiated the project, aiming to overcome market-driven art world dynamics.
  • OPA's manifesto states: 'Culture is not a stage. It is a playground.'
  • The association has no permanent space; its inaugural event was at WMilano in via Washington.
  • OPA plans thematic cycles instead of traditional programming, including exhibitions, performances, and conversations.
  • One early research focus is artificial intelligence, with ongoing dialogues with artists and collectives.
  • The group prioritizes emerging and experimental practices while remaining inclusive across ages.

Entities

Artists

  • Alice Arcangeli
  • Anita Dal Sasso
  • Dafne Riva
  • Dora Casadio
  • Erica Massaccesi
  • Ilona Särkkö
  • Jael Arazi
  • Maria Carolina Mitchell
  • Tea Burgisser

Institutions

  • OPA
  • WMilano

Locations

  • Milan
  • Italy
  • via Washington

Sources