GNAMC Director Mazzantini Reflects on Two Years: Controversies, Expansion, and New Directions

Renata Cristina Mazzantini, director of the Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Moderna e Contemporanea (GNAMC) in Rome, reflects on her first two years in charge (since January 2024) in an interview with Artribune. She addresses controversies including the Tolkien exhibition, the Futurism show, and the Carla Lonzi archive dispute. Mazzantini defends the decision to return the Lonzi archive, citing legal irregularities under Article 43, and states she would welcome it back under proper procedures. She highlights the reinstallation of Alfredo Pirri's 'Passi' (acquired in 2003 under Maria Vittoria Marini Clarelli), which now dialogues with Canova's 'Ercole e Lica'. The museum has expanded its reach through partnerships with the Comune di Parma and Fondazione Puglisi Cosentino in Catania, including a Balla exhibition showcasing all 63 works. A major expansion project by architect Mario Botta, announced on November 26, will add a 4,000 sqm Centro Studi and a temporary exhibition gallery in the Ala Cosenza, with a €15 million investment and completion by January 2027. The museum has also launched digital panels, an interactive classroom, and social projects with ASL Roma 2 for mental health. Mazzantini notes increased visitors and a return to being 'the place to be', with exhibitions by Ceroli, Bice Lazzari, and Marina Abramovic under her direction. The museum has become a publisher, copyrighting its own publications.