18th-century church becomes cultural space in Pesaro for Blu project

In Pesaro, Italian Capital of Culture 2024, the 18th-century Church of San Filippo Neri has been transformed into Fluido, a new cultural space inaugurated on May 16. The project is part of 'Blu: il colore della cuccagna,' a diffuse art initiative by Casa Sponge, an artist-run space in Pergola directed by artist Giovanni Gaggia (Pergola, 1977). The initiative centers on the color blue, referencing the Isatis tinctoria plant (woad) typical of the area. Key components include the exhibition 'L'Oro Blu,' curated by Leonardo Regano, juxtaposing works from the Museo dei Bronzi Dorati e della Città di Pergola collection with pieces by 40 contemporary artists. Artist Angelo Bellobono (Nettuno, 1964) created 'Il corpo nel paesaggio/il corpo del paesaggio,' a large collective installation made with the Pergola community, including students and teachers from Istituto Comprensivo G. Binotti. The work uses mud, color, and gold-tinted plaster on large canvases, drawings, and plaster patches. The church, restored with PNRR funds, is owned by entrepreneur Luca Angelucci. Casa Sponge has been active in the territory for 16 years.