Venice City Council dissolves Bevilacqua La Masa Foundation amid budget cuts

The Venice City Council has closed the historic Bevilacqua La Masa Foundation, a move reported by Artribune. Budget councillor Michele Zuin confirmed the foundation will be integrated into the council's culture department to cut costs. This decision follows broader budget reductions that also target three other public entities: Centro Maree, Ente Gondola, and the Lagoon Park, all slated to shut by 1 September 2016. Founded in 1898 by Duchess Felicita Bevilacqua La Masa, the foundation has long supported artists through its residency program. Concerns have emerged about the future of this legacy and whether the council will maintain support for the dozens of artists who benefited annually. The closure reflects a wider trend of austerity measures affecting Venice's cultural institutions, though specific details on the transition remain unclear.