Anonymous Street Art Project 'rusco' Takes Over Bologna's Historic Center

An anonymous 38-year-old Bologna native has launched 'rusco', an independent street art collective that has been actively installing unauthorized works in Bologna's historic center since spring 2023. The name 'rusco' is Bolognese slang for 'trash', referencing the city's former waste service. The creator, who insists on anonymity, manages a network of artists, produces fanzines and merchandise, and documents interventions. Notable actions include an Artcity 2024 poster by Evyrein depicting mayor Matteo Lepore, which was removed by municipal staff, and collective installations in Via Valdonica (ghetto ebraico) for Artcity 2024 and Vicolo Alemagna for Artcity 2025. The project has expanded to Tuscany and Veneto, with plans for Milan, Rome, Naples, and London. The creator cites a lack of dialogue with the municipality but notes that residents often protect street art during building maintenance. Future plans include workshops, action painting, music crossovers, and a summer cleanup of a degraded city park.