Simone Menegoi and Lorenzo Balbi on Revitalizing Bologna's Art Scene

Lorenzo Balbi became artistic director of MAMbo in July 2017, aiming to establish a coherent long-term vision for the museum's spaces, focusing on experimentation, international avant-gardes, and local research. Simone Menegoi was appointed artistic director of Arte Fiera in July 2018, tasked with making the fair more attractive to galleries and collectors while reconnecting it with Bologna's vibrant year-round art scene. The two curators collaborate closely, coordinating ART CITY and Arte Fiera programs. Menegoi introduced new curated sections like Focus on Post-War Masters and Pittura XXI for contemporary painting. Balbi launched ambitious projects including MAMbo Studios for international artists, a curatorial course with DAMS University of Bologna, a new Museo Morandi (pending legal resolution), a museum radio, and a Narration Department. Balbi brought Mika Rottenberg and Ragnar Kjartansson (exhibition opening January 22) to MAMbo, and had planned a project with John Baldessari before his death. Menegoi aims to attract top Italian galleries still absent from Arte Fiera. Their joint initiative Courtesy Emilia-Romagna showcases institutional and private collections, with the second edition curated by Eva Brioschi.