Gianni De Michelis, Only Italian Politician at Frieze London Opening, Interviewed
At the opening of Frieze London, former Italian Foreign Minister Gianni De Michelis was the sole Italian politician in attendance. Known for his role in the Socialist Party under Bettino Craxi during the 1980s, De Michelis has remained engaged with contemporary art, largely through his collector wife. In an interview, he recalled his cultural initiatives as minister, including collaborations with MoMA and the Guggenheim, and his efforts to internationalize Italian art. He contrasted his past support for art fairs with the current lack of interest from Italian ministers.
Key facts
- Gianni De Michelis was the only Italian politician at Frieze London opening.
- He served as Italian Foreign Minister in the 1980s under Bettino Craxi.
- De Michelis has a continued interest in contemporary art, influenced by his collector wife.
- He collaborated with MoMA and the Guggenheim during his political career.
- He worked to internationalize Italian art abroad.
- He criticized current Italian ministers for not supporting art fairs.
- The interview took place at Frieze London in 2012.
- De Michelis was politically marginalized since the 1990s.
Entities
Artists
- Gianni De Michelis
Institutions
- Frieze London
- MoMA
- Guggenheim
- Partito Socialista
- Artribune
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom