Why Italian art fairs struggle globally: a critique

Cristiano Seganfreddo argues that Italian art fairs lack global competitiveness due to territorial dispersion and lack of strategic coordination. He contrasts the success of Art Basel in Basel, which functions as an international hub with concentrated interests, relationships, and information exchange, supported by venues like Hauser & Wirth, Luma Foundation, Migros, and Kunsthalle Zürich. Basel's model has been exported to Miami, Hong Kong, and Buenos Aires, and it has expanded into design via Design Miami. In Italy, numerous fairs such as ArteFiera, Artissima, ArtVerona, and miart are spread across the country, weakening their ability to attract an international audience. Seganfreddo calls for a profound rethinking and collaboration among Italian fairs, as well as stronger ties with major international events like the Venice Biennale and Salone del Mobile. He urges Italian stakeholders to adopt a common calendar and overcome local rivalries.