Lecce's Academy of Fine Arts Launches 'New Patronage' to Combat Cultural Desertification

The Academy of Fine Arts of Lecce, under President Nicola Ciracì, is implementing a 'new patronage' strategy to revitalize arts education in southern Italy. Key initiatives include the Welcome Office International to attract foreign students, partnerships with the University of Arts of Tirana and Apulia Film Commission, and hosting the National Prize of Arts for the first time in Lecce next year. The Academy also supports Mesagne's bid for Italian Capital of Culture. A recent exhibition, 'Aperto 60 + /OFFF- ART', at Castello di Otranto showcases faculty work for the Academy's 60th anniversary. Ciracì emphasizes the 'Created in Italy' concept as a driver for cultural and economic growth, arguing that culture can generate employment and tourism.