Massimo De Carlo opens a virtual gallery space during lockdown

Despite the global coronavirus lockdown that has shuttered physical galleries and canceled major art events, influential Italian gallerist Massimo De Carlo is opening a new exhibition space—but it's entirely virtual. The Massimo De Carlo Virtual Space (VSpace) launches on April 14, 2020, as the gallery's fifth location, joining its real-world spaces in Milan, London, and Hong Kong. Developed with web designers and real-time 3D rendering specialists, VSpace uses high-speed 3D rendering to create an interactive, realistic virtual environment where visitors can view artworks. Unlike traditional galleries, the architecture adapts to the artworks rather than the reverse, allowing exhibitions without spatial constraints. The inaugural show, "The John Armleder and Rob Pruitt Show," runs from April 14 to 30, featuring works by John Armleder (Geneva, 1948) and Rob Pruitt (Washington, 1964). Armleder, represented by De Carlo since the gallery's founding in 1987, presents colorful abstract geometric pieces exploring space; Pruitt shows new works with colored squares and symbols. VSpace is accessible via the gallery's website or Oculus VR headsets. De Carlo stated the space represents a future where artists interact with architecture with unprecedented freedom, and collectors, critics, curators, and the public can experience art from home like never before. The initiative responds to the pandemic but also aims to enhance sales and collector relations long-term.