Triennale Milano Unveils New Vision Under President Vincenzo Trione
Triennale Milano has commenced a transformative four-year era under its new president, Vincenzo Trione, following Stefano Boeri's tenure. Trione, a distinguished academic and curator, outlined a forward-thinking agenda centered on posing profound questions rather than merely providing answers. This strategic shift aims to foster an institution that actively engages with contemporary challenges, promising a series of dynamic exhibitions, educational initiatives, and a renewed focus on Italian cultural identity. His leadership signifies a deliberate effort to blend intellectual inquiry with artistic expression, creating a vibrant hub for design, architecture, and art.
Vincenzo Trione, a professor of art and media history at Milan's IULM University, unveiled his comprehensive vision for Triennale Milano in his inaugural press conference. He articulated a philosophy that prioritizes exploration and open-ended dialogue, aiming for each year to feature a signature installation at the Palazzo dell'Arte. This installation will serve as a manifesto, encapsulating the year's overarching theme and artistic direction. Beyond the visual presentations, a robust public engagement program will complement the exhibitions, featuring lectures by prominent thinkers, seminars, and conferences. The initial public discourse will be led by Franco-Tunisian sociologist Asma Mhalla, focusing on themes of resilience amidst global crises.
A cornerstone of Trione's agenda is the revitalization of the Triennale's educational mission. Drawing on his academic background, he plans to re-establish the institution's Centro Studi (Study Centre), originally founded in the 1940s by Giuseppe Pagano and Piero Bottoni. This initiative underscores a commitment to fostering intellectual growth and research. Furthermore, Trione announced the introduction of three-year degree and PhD programs, designed to offer specialized training in curatorial studies, architecture, design, and fashion. These programs will cultivate the next generation of cultural leaders and innovators.
To steer this new direction, a distinguished Scientific Committee has been appointed, led by acclaimed architect and designer Michele De Lucchi. De Lucchi will also serve as the creative director of Triennale and curator of the Museo del Design Italiano. He will be joined by Manuela Lucà-Dazio, known for her work with the Venice Biennale and the Pritzker Architecture Foundation, who will oversee architecture, and Andrea Villani, a curator for the Ministry of Culture's Digital Heritage Gateway Platform, who will head the contemporary art department. This team brings a wealth of expertise, collectively shaping the institution's artistic and educational trajectory.
During the announcement, Michele De Lucchi shared insights into his curatorial approach for the Museo del Design Italiano. He emphasized the often-overlooked role of artisans in shaping Italian design. De Lucchi highlighted that while renowned entrepreneurs and architects are celebrated, the unique culture of Italian craftsmanship, which has largely vanished in many other parts of the world, deserves greater recognition and focus. His remarks underscore a commitment to celebrating the intricate details and traditional skills that are integral to Italy's rich design heritage.
In his closing remarks, Trione highlighted the "deeply Italian" identity of the newly appointed team, a deliberate choice in what he noted as a prevailing trend toward international appointments in curatorial and commissioning roles. He underscored this decision as a significant cultural statement, particularly for Milan, a city increasingly recognized for its global cosmopolitanism. This move reflects a desire to celebrate and promote Italian talent and heritage on a national and international scale. Upcoming events include a retrospective on modernist sculptor Costantino Nivola in November 2026, and a tribute to American artist Patti Smith, in collaboration with Fondation Cartier, also scheduled for November.