Flashback 2016: Torino's Antique and Modern Art Fair Expands with Foreign Galleries

The Flashback art fair in Turin, running from November 3 to 6, 2016 at Pala Alpitour Isozaki, focuses on antique and modern art, overlapping with Artissima only for the years 1970-1979. This year's oldest work is a 5th century BC Attic Pelike, and the fair includes archaeological pieces, modern tapestries, historical drawings, and photography by the Fratelli Alinari. Flashback has attracted significant foreign galleries, strengthening its international presence. The fair's organizers emphasize that the antique art system differs from contemporary art, and the value lies in the works themselves regardless of gallery origin. Flashback also supports the Opera Viva project, bringing contemporary art to the Barriera di Milano district, viewing all art as contemporary. The interview discusses the recent resignation of Patrizia Asproni as president of the Fondazione Torino Musei amid political changes in Turin's city government, with the M5S now in power. Organizers critique the bureaucratic and pyramidal system of Turin's contemporary art scene, advocating for a focus on research and inclusivity. They call for simplification of customs procedures for artwork circulation, noting that current bureaucracy hinders cultural exchange.