Italian museums turn to streaming during coronavirus closures

Due to the coronavirus outbreak, all Italian museums and cultural sites will be closed until March 1, 2020. This has resulted in the cancellation of events like the MIA Photo Fair and Salone del Mobile in Milan. Many institutions are now looking into digital options, following China's lead with social media and virtual shows. For instance, Art Basel created Online Viewing Rooms for its canceled Hong Kong fair. Meanwhile, from February 27 to March 1, the MAMbo in Bologna will stream Ragnar Kjartansson's 'Bonjour' performance on YouTube. Those who email with 'Bonjour' will get discounted entry to the 'AGAINandAGAINandAGAINand' exhibition and a free MAMbo pin. Lorenzo Balbi, the artistic director, emphasized the goal of overcoming physical barriers. Additionally, the Venice Architecture Biennale will host a press conference online on February 27 at 11:30 AM, featuring Paolo Baratta and Hashim Sarkis. The Museo Archeologico di Venezia has also started streaming, while the Castello di Rivoli canceled the opening of its exhibit but still held a press conference virtually.