Cecilia Alemani selects Calò, Cuoghi, and Husni-Bey for Italy Pavilion at 2017 Venice Biennale

The Ministry of Culture in Italy (MiBACT) has revealed the trio of artists chosen by curator Cecilia Alemani to represent the nation at the 2017 Venice Biennale. The selected individuals are Giorgio Andreotta Calò (born 1979, Venice, currently living in Amsterdam), Roberto Cuoghi (born 1973, Modena), and Adelita Husni-Bey (born 1985, of Italian-Libyan descent, residing in New York). This decision signifies a departure from earlier collective exhibitions, opting instead for a concentrated showcase of three artists, thus aligning the Italy Pavilion with other national representations. Alemani pointed out that the initiative seeks to explore the unique contributions of these artists rather than to encompass all of Italian art. Their practices, emerging in the early 21st century, are characterized as 'glocal'—reflecting global influences while remaining rooted in Italian culture. With two artists living abroad, the announcement was made well over a year prior to the Biennale's commencement to facilitate thorough preparation. Federica Galloni, the Director General for Contemporary Art and Architecture and Urban Peripheries at MiBACT, will act as Commissioner for the Italy Pavilion, with more information expected in the months ahead.