Rome must support contemporary art to compete globally, argues Marco Bassan

Marco Bassan, curator and founder of Spazio Taverna, argues in an Artribune opinion piece that Rome must integrate contemporary art into its archaeological sites to nurture a new generation of artists and remain competitive with other global capitals. He draws parallels to historical artists like Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and Bernini, who were challenged by Rome's classical masterpieces. Bassan notes that President Sergio Mattarella has already addressed this gap by commissioning contemporary Italian art and design for the Quirinale. He warns that without such symbolic challenges, Roman artists will remain 'adolescents facing history' and unable to respond to global issues like their French, Swiss, Dutch, and German peers. Bassan calls for institutional responsibility to inspire private investment and prevent young talent from fleeing abroad, especially as Rome bids for Expo 2030.