Neovernacolare: Defining a New Artistic Language

Christian Caliandro, an art historian and professor at the Accademia di Belle Arti di Firenze, publishes a theoretical essay on Artribune defining 'Neovernacolare' as an artistic language that seeks to escape the rigidity and austerity of contemporary art. He argues that much current art is constrained by artists' desire to meet the expectations of collectors, gallerists, and curators, leading to conformism and a lack of genuine innovation. As an antidote, Caliandro proposes an art that embraces fragility, precariousness, and risk, prioritizing connection with life over acceptance. He quotes Claes Oldenburg's manifesto-like statement advocating for art derived from everyday life. The essay is part of a series on Neovernacolare, with previous installments covering topics like exterior appearance, anti-rebellion, and cynicism. The piece also promotes Artribune's newsletters: Incanti (art market), Render (urban regeneration), and PAX (cultural tourism).