Madre Museum Naples Reopens with New Programs and Commissions

The Madre Museum in Naples has reopened under Phase 2 of Italy's COVID-19 lockdown easing. President Laura Valente announced a full new program, including the extension of the Marcello Rumma exhibition until June 29, and the launch of MadreFactory2020 dedicated to Gianni Rodari, featuring free workshops for children and inclusive paths for disabled visitors. A large carousel by Temitayo Ogumbiyi, a site-specific interactive sculpture inspired by African hairstyling techniques, will transform the courtyard into a playground. Armando Milani will cover the museum's fourth external wall with solidarity posters, and Francesco Faccin will create an installation of tables from recycled materials. All works will enter the Madre collection. The museum, owned by the Campania Region, received detailed safety protocols from the region. Valente emphasized the need to streamline Italian bureaucracy and rethink cultural strategies post-COVID. The new artistic director Kathryn Weir will announce the 20/21 season in June, focusing on ecology and rebirth. Confirmed exhibitions include Alessandro Mendini in October and Peter Lindbergh in March 2021.