Giant inflatable rocks land in Bologna's Piazza Maggiore, sparking debate

Giant inflatable rock sculptures by Australian studio Eness, founded by artist Nimrod Weis, have been installed in Bologna's Piazza Maggiore as part of the project "Iwagumi-Dismisura." The installation, a Christmas gift from Illumia and Bologna Festival to the city, consists of 19 inflatable structures up to 14 meters tall, mimicking granite boulders. They are illuminated with colors inspired by the Dolomites and emit sounds from nature and original musical compositions responding to public interaction. The work is on view from December 21 to 26, 2025, with the first lighting at 6 PM. It draws on the Japanese iwagumi tradition of asymmetrical rock arrangements in nature, adapted to an urban setting. The project has previously been shown in Singapore, Melbourne, and Dharhan. Bologna Festival superintendent Maddalena da Lisca calls it an "emotional and poetic short circuit," while Culture Councillor Daniele Del Pozzo praises it as "a living work that leaves room for curiosity." However, the installation has sparked criticism from locals, including writer Danilo Masotti, who satirized it with a fictional counter-installation, and others questioning its relevance to the historic context. Supporters highlight its originality and photogenic appeal.