Marinella Senatore cancels Naples inauguration after Scampia balcony collapse

Marinella Senatore has canceled the inauguration of her work 'Io Contengo Moltitudini' (I Contain Multitudes), scheduled for July 25, 2024, at Rotonda Diaz in Naples, following a tragic balcony collapse at the Vela Celeste building in Scampia on the night of July 22-23. The accident killed two people and injured thirteen, including seven children. Senatore, in agreement with Naples mayor Gaetano Manfredi, decided to cancel the performance as a gesture of respect and solidarity. The work, part of the Napoli Contemporanea 2024 program curated by Vincenzo Trione, will remain on view from July 25 to October 24. Senatore collaborated with students from the Istituto Superiore Melissa Bassi in Scampia, who contributed phrases and ideas integrated into the installation. The piece is a luminous diptych comprising two light sculptures connected by a dancefloor: one inspired by Baroque ephemeral stage designs, the other a tree-like structure with sixteen cone-shaped signs sourced from vernacular traditions. Senatore has expressed her intention to donate one of the two sculptures to the Scampia neighborhood as a symbol of hope and rebirth. In a statement, she emphasized the importance of supporting the affected community and stepping back when necessary.