Milan's La Scala tower seeks public art for facade with €85,000 competition

ARIA, the regional procurement agency for Lombardy, has launched a competition to commission a permanent artwork for the facade of Mario Botta's new tower at Teatro alla Scala in Milan. The tower, an extension of Giuseppe Piermarini's 18th-century theater, matches the height of Botta's 2004 stage tower and is set to become fully operational by 2024. The artwork must be original, address the theme of 'Music and Architecture,' and be affixed to the rear wall near the Via Verdi entrance at number 3. Artists or groups can propose any form, technique, or material except video art, ensuring durability, stability, and low maintenance. The deadline for submissions is March 27, 2024, at 12:00. A jury including Mario Botta and two renowned artists will select the winner, who receives €85,000 but must cover production and installation costs. The artwork must be completed within 180 days of the service order. Critics note that the €85,000 budget is modest compared to the tower's €18 million construction cost and €4 million interior fit-out, potentially deterring major Italian and international artists. The competition fulfills Italy's Law 717/49 requiring public art in new public buildings.