What's Happening?
Artissima, Italy's exclusive contemporary art fair, concluded its 32nd edition on November 2, 2025, in Turin. Directed by Luigi Fassi, the event attracted 34,500 visitors and featured 176 galleries from 36 countries. The fair emphasized experimentation
and discovery, with 63 monographic presentations and a significant presence of international collectors and curators. The theme, 'Operating Manual for Spaceship Earth,' inspired galleries to explore responsibility and innovation. The fair also tested Italy's new 5% VAT rate on art, potentially impacting the country's competitive stance in the European art market.
Why It's Important?
Artissima's growth underscores a resurgence in the Italian art market, positioning Turin as a key hub for contemporary art. The fair's success reflects a broader trend of increasing international interest and investment in Italian art. The introduction of a 5% VAT rate on art could enhance Italy's appeal to global collectors, potentially boosting the local economy. Artissima's role in fostering connections between market activities and public collections further strengthens Turin's cultural infrastructure, benefiting both artists and institutions.
What's Next?
Looking ahead, Artissima's continued expansion may influence other Italian art fairs and galleries to adopt similar strategies, enhancing Italy's global art market presence. The fair's emphasis on responsibility and innovation could inspire future editions to explore new themes and collaborations. The impact of the new VAT rate will be closely monitored, as it may lead to policy adjustments that further integrate Italy into the European art economy. Artissima's success may also encourage more international galleries to participate, increasing the fair's diversity and reach.
Beyond the Headlines
Artissima's focus on responsibility and innovation highlights the evolving role of art in addressing global challenges. By encouraging galleries to connect formal experimentation with broader systems and resources, the fair fosters a dialogue on art's potential to influence societal change. This approach aligns with a growing trend in the art world to engage with pressing issues such as climate change and social justice, positioning Artissima as a leader in this movement. The fair's integration of market and institutional activities also sets a precedent for other art events, promoting sustainable growth and collaboration.
