Arte Fiera Bologna 2026: Top and Flops from the 49th Edition

The 49th edition of Arte Fiera in Bologna closed with mixed reviews. Under the first directorship of Davide Ferri, the fair proved more convincing than expected, with 174 galleries in the Benevolo-designed pavilions 25 and 26, a readable layout, and five curated sections balancing market and research. Publishing houses and magazines were relocated to the oval entrance area, integrating them into the fair experience. However, the event faced criticism: unstable Wi-Fi forced journalists and operators to use personal hotspots; catering was deemed below international standards; and taxi shortages remained a persistent issue. The ART CITY program was seen as oversaturated, with too many overlapping events diluting quality. Among institutional exhibitions, the John Giorno retrospective at MAMbo, curated by Lorenzo Balbi, was a highlight, as was Flavio de Marco's 'Screen Life' at Villa delle Rose. In contrast, Michael E. Smith's show at Palazzo Bentivoglio was considered alienating for non-specialist audiences, though an Alberto Garutti intervention nearby was praised. University spaces involved in ART CITY showed potential but suffered from accessibility issues. Bologna's ongoing urban transformation, including a tram line expected next year, was noted as a positive development despite current construction disruptions.