Daniele Papuli defends artists' role in society

In a response to an editorial in Artribune Magazine, artist Daniele Papuli (born 1971 in Maglie, Puglia, based in Milan) argues that artists are not politically or culturally impoverished, but rather face systemic exploitation by galleries and the art market. He criticizes galleries that pay poorly or keep works on consignment indefinitely, and notes that artists often sacrifice dignity to exhibit in important venues. Papuli calls for healthy, transparent percentages in sales and rejects the notion that art is a hobby, insisting it is work with social, economic, and spiritual value. He also urges Italian politics to include scientists, philosophers, anthropologists, artists, and economists in decision-making. The text references the pandemic context and the rise of virtual fairs, which Papuli sees as a positive shift away from costly physical fairs. He emphasizes the need for artists to communicate more among themselves and to demand fair treatment. The piece is a passionate defense of the artist's role as a centripetal force in culture.