Vittorio Sgarbi Defends His Exhibition at Castello Ursino in Catania

Vittorio Sgarbi has addressed the backlash from Artribune concerning his exhibition "Da Giotto a de Chirico. I tesori nascosti" at Castello Ursino in Catania. He defends his choice to blend temporary artworks with the museum's permanent collection, fostering interactions between pieces like an ancient seated athlete or deity and Jusepe de Ribera's "San Girolamo in penitenza." Sgarbi claims the criticism reflects bias and a failure to grasp the intellectual nuances of the display. He emphasizes that the exhibition showcases "hidden treasures" from private collections and bank foundations, organized chronologically rather than thematically. Featured artists include Ribera, Cagnacci, and others, each represented by significant works. Sgarbi likens his methodology to that of Palazzo Fortuny in Venice. The exhibition remains open in Catania, Sicily.