Galleria Diffusa: Bologna's shops become art venues

In Bologna, a new community project called Galleria Diffusa turns shops and cultural spaces into free exhibition venues for emerging artists. Initiated by American entrepreneur and artist Chadwick Meyer, the project currently involves six participating locations mapped on a website. Artists submit works; Meyer curates a shortlist, then shop owners select pieces to display. The project also aims to involve DAMS students as volunteer curators. Meyer's own series 'Second Chances'—exploring disposability in modern culture—was placed in local shops after his gallery exhibition ended. The model is intended to be open-source, allowing other cities to replicate it. Artists from Ferrara have already expressed interest.