Alessandro Bulgini: 'I Want to Die Worn Out' — Interview on Art, Life, and Gaza

In an extensive interview with Artribune, Italian artist Alessandro Bulgini (b. 1962, Taranto) discusses his evolution from painter to community-focused artist, his role as artistic director of Flashback Habitat in Turin, and his recent project 'Scarecrow' with curator Christian Caliandro. Bulgini, who has faced personal loss and heart disease, explains his philosophy of 'wanting to die worn out'—using all his energy in service of others rather than preserving himself. He reflects on his 'Eretici' (Heretics) paintings from the 1990s, which depicted marginalized figures emerging from black backgrounds, and draws parallels to his current focus on invisible communities, including Gaza. He describes creating a memorial at Flashback Habitat for Gaza victims, featuring donated carpets and a satellite dish, where he serves Palestinian tea weekly. Bulgini has faced criticism and threats for his pro-Palestinian stance, including wearing a 'Gaza' t-shirt at Art Basel. The interview also touches on his move to Barriera di Milano in 2008, his relationship with Caravaggio's use of natural light, and his belief that art must create spaces for thought and dialogue. The 'Scarecrow' exhibition runs until September 27, 2026, at Flashback Habitat, Corso Giovanni Lanza 75, Turin.