The Venice Biennale Foundation has shaken the art world by nominating right-wing writer Pietrangelo Buttafuoco to become its new President. This decision, reportedly made by Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano of Italy’s right-wing coalition government, has garnered significant attention and raised concerns among many individuals within the industry. The appointment is set to take effect in March 2024, pending ratification by Italy’s parliament. The upcoming opinions from the Culture Commission in the chamber and senate on November 14 will shape the destiny of this controversial choice.
When news of Buttafuoco’s nomination broke, Italian media sources were quick to highlight his previous involvement in far-right politics during his youth. However, he is now said to hold more traditionally conservative views and even writes for left-wing newspapers, presenting himself as a maverick thinker. This change in political ideologies has led to mixed opinions on his appointment, with some applauding his ability to bridge the gap between different perspectives, while others question his true motivations and principles.
Francesco Rutelli, Rome Mayor and cinema association ANICA President, acknowledges that Buttafuoco is not a banal intellectual but recognizes his potential to promote the institution’s richness and pluralism. The Venice Biennale is renowned worldwide as one of the greatest cultural institutions, steeped in history as one of the oldest. It has always embraced the spirit of freedom, serving as a platform for artistic expression and diverse voices. Rutelli believes that Buttafuoco’s independent and free-thinking nature positions him well to continue this legacy and interpret it in the best way possible.
The appointment of Buttafuoco follows a trend of cultural institutions in Italy shifting to right-wing leadership under the governance of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s Fratelli d’Italia party. Since coming into power, a number of key positions have been filled by individuals with right-wing views, leading to concerns over the impact on artistic freedom and inclusivity. Within this context, Buttafuoco’s appointment to such a prestigious role within the Venice Biennale Foundation has further fueled debates surrounding the future direction of the institution and its commitment to its core values.
Despite the controversy surrounding his nomination, the Venice Biennale Foundation has confirmed Buttafuoco’s appointment. However, it should be noted that the foundation itself does not have the authority to finalize such decisions. The ratification process involving Italy’s parliament and the subsequent opinions from the Culture Commission will determine whether Buttafuoco assumes the role of President. This pivotal moment in the institution’s history will undoubtedly shape its trajectory moving forward and will be closely monitored by the international art community.
The nomination of Pietrangelo Buttafuoco as the President of the Venice Biennale Foundation has sparked intense discussions and divided opinions. With his evolving political ideologies and reputation as a maverick intellectual, questions arise about his suitability for this esteemed position. As Italy’s cultural landscape undergoes a noticeable shift towards right-wing leadership, the implications for artistic freedom and inclusion within the Venice Biennale are brought into focus. Ultimately, the ratification process and the opinions of Italy’s parliament will determine the fate of Buttafuoco’s appointment and the future of this renowned cultural institution.