Ricci Oddi Gallery in Piacenza Seeks Director After 10-Year Vacancy

The Galleria d'Arte Moderna Ricci Oddi in Piacenza has announced a public selection for a new director, ending a decade-long vacancy since the death of former director Stefano Fugazza in 2009. The gallery gained international attention following the recovery of Gustav Klimt's "Portrait of a Lady," stolen 22 years ago. The board, chaired by art historian Fernando Mazzocca, seeks a candidate with at least five years of experience as a conservator, director, or curator in public or private museums. Responsibilities include coordinating cultural programming, organizing exhibitions, managing communications, and fostering relations with national and international institutions, particularly the adjacent XNL contemporary art center. The four-year contract offers an annual salary of €55,000 gross. Applications must be submitted by April 30, 2021. The city council has invested in new climate control and lighting systems, facade renovations, and the upcoming "Progetto Klimt." Councilor Jonathan Papamarenghi emphasized the administration's commitment to the gallery's revival, viewing it as beneficial for the city. The gallery was founded in 1924 when entrepreneur Giuseppe Ricci Oddi donated his collection of 19th- and 20th-century Italian figurative art to the municipality, along with funds for a dedicated building.