Ex Bar Cristina in Cesena Reborn as Neighborhood Art Gallery

In Cesena, Italy, the former Bar Cristina, a beloved community spot in the early 2000s, has been transformed into Ex Bar – Galleria di Quartiere, a neighborhood art gallery. The space, located at Via Manfredi, was acquired by musician Lorenzo Kruger (frontman of Nobraino) and his family after the bar closed pre-pandemic. In 2024, Kruger renovated the venue instead of reopening or renting it. The idea crystallized after artist Federico Guerri, father of his daughter's friend, proposed a home-gallery exhibition; Kruger suggested using the empty bar instead. The inaugural show, "Da un'incisione del XXI Secolo," opened in October 2024, featuring Guerri's works. A second exhibition by photographer Luca Piras, "Fiume," followed. The gallery hosts local artists and includes a video-portrait format. A third show by sculptor Francesco Bocchini opens February 1, 2025. The name "Ex Bar" preserves the memory of the original bar's community spirit. The gallery also organizes "Versinages," poetry readings. Kruger emphasizes the mission to showcase talented local artists unknown to the public.