Galleria Civica Franco Libertucci: A Hidden Museum in Molise

In the town of Casacalenda, Molise, which has a population of just over two thousand, the Galleria Civica d'Arte Contemporanea Franco Libertucci has been cultivating a diverse collection of contemporary art for more than thirty years. Under the direction of architect Massimo Palumbo, this museum weaves sculptures and installations into the urban landscape, showcasing works from prominent Italian artists since the late 1960s. Notable contributors include Carlo Lorenzetti, Baldo Diodato, and Virginia Ryan, among others. Art historian Lorenzo Canova views the museum as a vital link, connecting celebrated artists to the community's artistic heritage. Diodato, born in 1938, has a studio that may feature in this evolving artistic journey, as his minimalist sculptures interact with historical elements, which critic Achille Bonito Oliva notes "design the past." An article in Grandi Mostre #22 proposes that a tour of Molise's art scene could commence in this vibrant village, rich in visual opportunities.