Italian art historians protest commission for 'super directors' of state museums

Two university associations, Cunsta and Sisca, have sent a letter to Italian Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano and Director General Massimo Osanna criticizing the selection committee for the new directors of major state museums. The committee, chaired by lawyer Francesco di Ciommo, includes only one art historian among its members, which the associations deem insufficient given the number and importance of the museums involved. They also question the presence of two MiC officials, arguing this compromises impartiality, and note that neither Di Ciommo nor member Marina Brogi have prior experience in cultural heritage. The committee will select directors for institutions including the Uffizi, Brera, and Capodimonte. The letter calls the composition a 'very bad signal' and accuses the ministry of 'contempt for scientific expertise.'