Luigi Fassi on Artissima, Ethics, and the Future

Luigi Fassi, director of Artissima since 2022, discusses his interdisciplinary inspirations, key projects, and vision for the future. Fassi previously directed MAN Nuoro (2018-2022) and Kunstverein ar/ge kunst Bolzano, and has written for Flash Art, Domus, ArtForum, and Mousse. He cites poetry and dance as constant influences outside visual art. Among his most significant projects are a commission with Kilianj Kia Henda for Steirischer Herbst Festival in Austria, addressing the Slovenian border's Cold War memories and migrant flows, and the 2016 group show 'Crisis of Presence' at Pori Art Museum in Finland, inspired by Ernesto De Martino's writings. Fassi rejects the concept of genius loci, emphasizing instead personal formation and belonging to values. He believes the past innervates everyone and advises young professionals to study continuously, talk with artists and curators, and invest in travel. He affirms the importance of the sacred as mystery, redemption, and hope. Looking ahead, he predicts a return to ethics—of values and the person—and renewed attention to European tradition in dialogue with global perspectives.