MACRO Roma Turns 20: Political Neglect and Director Carousel

The MACRO museum in Rome marked its 20th anniversary on December 10-11, 2022, with a gathering of artists, curators, and gallerists, though no political figures, including culture councilor Miguel Gotor, attended. Established during Walter Veltroni's tenure as mayor, MACRO was intended to establish Rome as a hub for contemporary art, yet it has struggled with ongoing mismanagement and a lack of clear identity. Over the years, the museum has seen several directors, including Danilo Eccher (8 years), Luca Massimo Barbero (2.5 years), Bartolomeo Pietromarchi (3 years), Giovanna Alberta Campitelli (a few months), Giorgio de Finis, and the current Luca Lo Pinto. The museum has lost sponsors like Enel and MacroAmici amid these issues. Nevertheless, under Lo Pinto's leadership, MACRO has started to reclaim its experimental essence, showcased through a weekend filled with discussions and activities.