Christine Macel on Viva Arte Viva and the Reconciliation of Reason and Emotion

Christine Macel, curator of the 57th Venice Biennale, discusses her exhibition 'Viva Arte Viva' in an interview with Artribune. She explains that the repetition of 'viva' emphasizes art's vitality and its role in daily life. Macel advocates for a 'neo-humanism' that reconciles reason with emotion, criticizing the Cartesian separation of mind and body. She argues that contemporary society, marked by political failures and urban planning that isolates people, needs art to help reinvent life. The Biennale features 'trans-pavilions' addressing nationalism and tradition, and includes interactive works that engage all senses. Macel highlights the importance of emotional education and cites Danièle Giraudy's tactile approach at the Musée Picasso as an influence. The exhibition is designed to be accessible to all ages, with a physical dimension that avoids the mind-body split. The interview was conducted by Marco Enrico Giacomelli and Massimiliano Tonelli.