miart 2022 Director Nicola Ricciardi on Radical Changes and Art Week Synergy

In an interview with Artribune, miart 2022 director Nicola Ricciardi discusses the radical changes implemented for the 26th edition of the Milan fair, held in April 2022. After a lackluster 2021 edition due to pandemic constraints, Ricciardi aimed to restore curatorial quality. Key changes include: a uniform stand price of €290 per square meter, eliminating separate sections for modern, contemporary, and design; placing the Emergent section for young galleries at the entrance; and mixing galleries across periods to encourage discovery. The visual identity was redesigned by Cabinet Milano, featuring photography by choreographer Isabelle Wenzel. The Decades section, curated by Alberto Salvadori, mixed historical figures like Robert Mapplethorpe and Gianni Bertini. Sales were reportedly strong, though exact figures are not disclosed. Ricciardi emphasized collaboration with Milan's art week, including major shows at HangarBicocca and Fondazione Prada, working with Assessore alla Cultura Tommaso Sacchi. Future goals include increasing international galleries and collectors, with support from Exhibitors Liaison Anna Bergamasco and VIP Manager Cristina Raviolo. The next edition is scheduled for late April 2023.