Milan's Spazio22 closes due to pandemic, gallerists cite uncertainty

Spazio22, a shared exhibition space in Milan near Porta Romana operated by Federico Luger (FL GALLERY) and Giampaolo Abbondio (Galleria Giampaolo Abbondio) since 2015, has closed. The decision was announced via a Facebook post citing pandemic-related limitations. The space at Viale Sabotino 22 hosted numerous national and international artists and galleries over five years, focusing on experimentation and exchange. Abbondio explained that contract renewal negotiations with the property owner failed, and the pandemic made normal programming impossible. Luger noted that art galleries rely on traveling audiences, which are now restricted. Both gallerists expressed skepticism about digital platforms replacing physical exhibitions. Abbondio plans to continue his gallery from a previous office, focusing on Italian artists for the next year, and hopes to participate in miart 2020 with Erastudio Art Gallery. Luger remains in Switzerland, uncertain about returning to Milan due to travel restrictions. The closure reflects the broader impact of COVID-19 on the art market, where insecurity dampens collectors' willingness to buy.