Italian art world mobilizes #iorestoacasa campaign amid COVID-19 lockdown

As Italy's COVID-19 crisis escalates, Lombardy and 14 other provinces become red zones, prompting a social media campaign #iorestoacasa (#IStayHome) to encourage civic responsibility. Celebrities like Jovanotti, Negramaro's Giuliano Sangiorgi, chef Massimo Bottura, and influencer Chiara Ferragni join the call. The art system also responds: museums forced to close launch digital initiatives, while galleries face a dilemma. Galleries like Deodato in Milan rely on online sales, but many kept open with low profile until stricter measures. Massimo De Carlo gallery posts Maurizio Cattelan's work 'Torno Subito' on Facebook announcing temporary closure. The Gallery Apart in Rome accepts only appointments. The situation remains chaotic as galleries classified as commercial businesses can still admit few visitors, forcing a choice between public health and commercial survival.