Critique of Poor Public Art Installations at Florence Cathedral

An article by Massimiliano Tonelli on Artribune criticizes the installation of two large sculptures by Emanuele Giannelli behind the Duomo of Florence, inaugurated on February 20, 2025, under the auspices of the Tuscany Region. The works are placed near the apse of Santa Maria del Fiore, under Brunelleschi's dome, next to the Museo dell'Opera and opposite the entrance to the Presidency of the Tuscany Region. Tonelli argues that Giannelli lacks the credentials to exhibit in such a historic site, noting he has never had a show at a major international museum, lacks critical recognition, and is absent from relevant collections. The installation also lacks a curator or scientific oversight. Additionally, a luminous sculpture by Marco Lodola, titled "L'Attesa," installed in November 2024 for the "La Toscana delle Donne" festival, stands nearby. Tonelli criticizes the display plinths for being cluttered with the artist's name, labels, QR codes, logos, and sponsor branding, which he deems unprofessional. He calls for the works to be removed before the scheduled May date and suggests proper procedures for public art commissions, including selecting a qualified curator, forming a scientific committee, issuing a public call, and securing adequate funding.