Italian Cultural Institute in Brussels Becomes Contemporary Art Hub with Artist-Curated Shows

The Italian Cultural Institute (IIC) in Brussels has transformed its exhibition space into a contemporary art venue under director Paolo Grossi. Grossi, a literary scholar with prior roles in Paris and Stockholm, appointed Turin-born artist Laura Viale as artistic director. Viale, former partner of late gallerist Guido Carbone, collaborates with Maria Elena Minuto. The program, titled "a due," pairs an Italian artist linked to Brussels with a Belgian artist. Past pairings include Davide Bertocchi with Joris Van de Moortel, Enrico Gaido with Freek Wambacq, and currently Margherita Moscardini with the group Futurfarmers during Art Brussels week. Viale, who moved to Brussels in 2013, aims to foster networking for Italian artists. The initiative highlights the IIC's reliance on directors' personal initiative rather than standardized models. The exhibition runs until April 29, 2016, at Rue de Livourne 38, Brussels.