POPULUS Transforms Italy's Po River into Interdisciplinary Art-Science Laboratory

Between April and May 2026, Italy's Po River transforms into a cultural hub with POPULUS, a public engagement initiative by the University of Parma. Spearheaded by ecologist Rossano Bolpagni and artistic curator Michela Ongaretti, the project showcases artists Molom (comprising Milena Berta and Alessandro Pedretti) and Gio Manzoni. Molom presents Aqualucentis, which merges alabaster sculptures with interactive soundscapes, while Manzoni's Pianeta Fetonte features large banners made from organic materials. Engaging local communities, the project includes sound walks, storytelling workshops, and botanical drawing labs within the UNESCO Po Grande Biosphere Reserve. Notable events are scheduled for April 10 in Boretto, an Earth Day walk on April 24 in Pomponesco, and a final exhibition in Parma on May 29-30.